The U.S. Navy is set to significantly increase its Tomahawk missile orders, seeking a staggering 1,200% boost by 2027. This request forms part of the Defense Department’s fiscal 2027 budget draft, which includes a $3 billion proposal to replenish missile stockpiles depleted during recent military operations.
Budget Proposal Overview
This ambitious request comes within the framework of a larger $1.5 trillion budget proposal released on Friday. In fiscal 2026, Congress authorized $257 million for the acquisition of 58 Tomahawk missiles. Now, the Navy is aiming for production of 785 missiles, with modifications costing around $1.5 billion.
Context of Tomahawk Usage
According to reports, the Pentagon has been utilizing Tomahawk missiles at an unprecedented rate, launching at least 850 since the conflict in Iran commenced on February 28. This amount sets a record for a single military campaign, surpassing the prior high of 802 missiles used during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Implications of Increased Production
- The Navy’s increased request for Tomahawk missiles aims to replenish stockpiles effectively.
- Mark Cancian from the Center for Strategic International Studies mentioned that replacing the 850 missiles used could take two to three years.
- The Navy expects to receive 110 Tomahawk missiles in fiscal 2026.
Additional Weaponry Requests
In addition to the Tomahawk missile requests, the Navy also sought 494 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) for around $800 million. This is a notable increase from the 106 missiles requested in fiscal 2026, which cost approximately $69 million. Overall, the Navy’s weapons procurement budget increased from about $10 billion in 2026 to over $22 billion in 2027.
Impact on Global Orders
The high usage of Tomahawk missiles has also impacted foreign orders. For instance, Japan’s request for around 400 Tomahawk missiles is experiencing delays, initially expected to be completed by March 2028.
Future Production Capacities
Raytheon Technologies (RTX) managed to produce 100 new missiles in 2025. Additionally, an agreement was reached with the Defense Department to potentially increase production to 1,000 missiles annually over a seven-year period, beginning on February 4, 2026.
As the U.S. Navy navigates these significant changes, the future landscape of military capabilities is poised to shift dramatically, especially concerning the Tomahawk missile program.
