In a boost to naval aviation capabilities, V2X Inc. has secured a contract valued at $747m for the maintenance of the F-5 aircraft, which are necessary for adversary combat training.

This contract marks a step in advancing the operational readiness of the US Navy and Marine Corps by ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of these training assets.

The US Navy has eight F-5Fs, 16 F-5Es, and 29 F-5Ns. GlobalData's intelligence on the US defence market highlights that the multirole aircraft were all acquired from Northrop Grumman Corp between 2006 and 2020.

The F-5 aircraft, known for their role in simulating enemy tactics, are important in preparing naval pilots for real-world combat scenarios. By providing a realistic adversary experience, the F-5s play a role in honing pilots' skills and enhancing their ability to respond to combat situations. The new contract will see V2X delivering maintenance and support services, which are set to extend through November 2028, with potential extensions pushing the total value beyond $747m.

Jeremy C. Wensinger, President and CEO of V2X, expressed enthusiasm about the contract, highlighting the company's dedication to advancing national defence capabilities. "We are honoured to have been selected for this critical endeavour, further solidifying our dedication to providing industry-leading support for our nation's defence,” Wensinger said. “We look forward to leveraging our expertise and capabilities to ensure the operational excellence of the F-5 aircraft and, by extension, the readiness of the US Navy and Marine Corps."