# Navy Orders Blackbeard Missile Production

The U.S. Navy placed a production delivery order worth up to **$200 million** for Castelion’s Blackbeard hypersonic missile in mid-September 2026. A separate Department of War framework sets a guaranteed minimum of 500 missiles annually after testing and validation, with a pathway to additional purchases. Castelion is also testing a ground-launched configuration, but the reported launcher image does not establish compatibility with HIMARS or MLRS or confirm a production schedule; development is expected to conclude in 2027.

- The Navy order covers manufacture, assembly, testing, and delivery of an initial missile lot. The separate framework points to potential recurring production demand contingent on successful testing and validation.
- Companies supplying missile production, testing, launcher integration, or related capabilities can assess potential subcontracting and competitive opportunities as the program advances. Lockheed Martin supplies competing missile systems.
- Because no open solicitation or procurement contact is identified, contractors should not treat the reported order as an active bid opportunity; the stated production outlook remains subject to testing and validation.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Contracting Vehicles
**Published:** October 11, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Navy (USN)
- Department of War
- Portfolio Acquisition Executive Aviation

### Vendors
- Castelion (awardee)
- Lockheed Martin (supplier of competing missile systems)

### Sources
- [Castelion tests ground-launched Blackbeard as potential rival to Lockheed Martin systems](https://defence-industry.eu/castelion-tests-ground-launched-blackbeard-as-potential-rival-to-lockheed-martin-systems) - Defence Industry Europe