# Defense Agencies Award Major Contracts

AeroVironment reported a $405 million international direct commercial sales order for LOCUST X3 high-energy laser systems for counter-drone operations, including an in-country maintenance and sustainment depot. Separately, on November 6, 2026, the Navy awarded Vigor Marine $222 million for USS Gridley maintenance and modernization, with options that could raise the total to $233 million, and BAE Systems Maritime Solutions $57 million for USS Cincinnati maintenance, with options that could raise the total to $60 million. The roundup also cites an Air Force Research Laboratory evaluation contract for Electra.aero, an AFRICOM autonomous casualty-evacuation demonstration planned for early FY2027, and Navy confirmation hearings scheduled for November 17 and 19.

- The Navy awards create near-term ship-repair and modernization work, with options increasing potential value; the USS Cincinnati procurement received two offers.
- The laser order includes an in-country sustainment depot, indicating demand that may extend beyond initial delivery to maintenance and support services.
- Contractors supporting naval maintenance, directed-energy systems, and autonomous platforms can use these awards and planned demonstrations to assess relevant subcontracting, sustainment, and training opportunities.
- Navy confirmation hearings are scheduled for November 17 and 19, 2026; the AFRICOM demonstration is planned for early FY2027.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** November 13, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of the Navy (Navy)
- U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)
- Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
- U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM)

### Vendors
- AeroVironment (awardee)
- Vigor Marine LLC (awardee)
- Maritime Solutions Inc. (BAE Systems) (awardee)
- Electra.aero (evaluation contract awardee)

### Sources
- [Defense Watch: AUKUS Review, Navy Hearings, Int'l Laser Sale - Defense Daily](https://www.defensedaily.com/defense-watch-aukus-review-navy-hearings-intl-laser-sale/defense-watch) - Defense Daily