San Diego, – General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) has secured a multiyear subcontract from Leidos to manufacture critical components for the U.S. Army and Navy's Common-Hypersonic Glide Body (C-HGB). The agreement covers production work through 2031.
Under the contract, GA-EMS will manufacture precision-machined metal parts, structural subassemblies and electrical cable assemblies, including cables for the Elevon Control Module, which operates the glide body's flight-control surfaces. The company will use specialised machining equipment, skilled technicians and inspection processes to meet required design and quality standards.
The work supports the joint U.S. Army and Navy hypersonic weapons programme. Leidos' wider $2.7 billion contract, announced in May 2026, combines the C-HGB and Thermal Protection System (TPS) programmes under a single framework to streamline development and support the transition towards production.
Supporting Dark Eagle and Conventional Prompt Strike
The shared C-HGB is designed for the Army's Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW), known as Dark Eagle, and the Navy's Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) programme.
After acceleration by a rocket booster, the glide body separates and travels towards its target at speeds above Mach 5, while manoeuvring during flight. The Army's Dark Eagle has an estimated operational range of more than 2,775 kilometres. The two programmes are intended to provide long-range conventional strike capabilities from land-based launchers, ships and submarines.
Previous Experience and Production Work
GA-EMS previously manufactured prototype glide-body subassemblies and supplied hardware and cables for the programme's successful 2020 flight test. The new agreement extends this experience into component production.
GA-EMS President Scott Forney said the contract builds on the company's prototype manufacturing and flight-test experience. Vice President of Weapons Programs Mike Rucker highlighted its expertise in precision-machined parts, structural components and cable assemblies, providing continuity in electrical and mechanical manufacturing.
The company will use its existing workforce and manufacturing resources within the U.S. defence industrial base to complete the work.
The financial value of the GA-EMS subcontract and specific delivery quantities have not been disclosed. The agreement supports the continued development and production of hypersonic weapon components for both the U.S. Army and Navy.
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