Global Defense

U.S. Army Expands Contract for Iconic Anti-Tank Missile and Integrates New Technologies

DEFCROS News

08 Aug 2026 — 1 min read

Image: defence-blog

The U.S. Army continues its commitment to the M72 LAW anti-tank missile, a system that has proven its effectiveness since the Vietnam War. Recently, the Army awarded Raytheon a contract worth over half a billion dollars to procure additional units of this 55-year-old missile. This significant investment underscores the Army's intent to maintain operational capabilities of the M72 LAW well into the latter half of the 21st century.

Modernization Efforts for Legacy Systems

Alongside the procurement expansion, the Army is also adapting the M72 LAW to meet contemporary battlefield demands. In a move to enhance its capabilities, Kratos Defense & Security Solutions has been contracted by the U.S. Army's Combat Capabilities Development Command Center. This contract focuses on integrating advanced technologies into the missile system, particularly in areas of:

Command
Control
Communications
Computers
Cyber
Intelligence
Surveillance
Reconnaissance

This initiative aims to provide the missile with "new eyes," suggesting an enhancement in its targeting and operational effectiveness.

Strategic Implications of Continued Investment

The decision to invest heavily in the M72 LAW highlights several strategic considerations:

Longevity of Legacy Systems: The Army's reliance on a decades-old missile demonstrates confidence in its proven capabilities.
Integration of New Technologies: Updating the missile with advanced systems reflects an adaptive approach to modern warfare.
Cost Efficiency: Maintaining existing systems can often be more economical than developing entirely new platforms.

As the Army prepares for potential future conflicts, this blend of legacy systems and advanced technology integration may offer a balanced approach to operational readiness. The M72 LAW, with its historical significance and ongoing enhancements, remains a cornerstone of U.S. anti-tank strategy.

Sources: Defence-Blog

Edited by Daniel Vazdar, Editor. How DEFCROS News reports, sources and corrects.

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