TUCSON, Ariz., Oct. 31, 2007 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Air Force fired Raytheon Company's (NYSE: RTN) AGM-65E laser-guided Maverick missile in combat operations for the first time in June.

Until now, only the Navy and Marine Corps have used the laser-guided version of the Maverick missile. The laser-guided Maverick has a combat-proven record of effectiveness and reliability against armored and moving surface targets in urban environments and during close air support missions.

Raytheon's laser-guided Maverick addresses a joint Air Force and Navy urgent operational need for a close air support weapon to defeat high-speed moving targets with minimal collateral damage.

To meet its long-term need for precision engagement of high-speed moving targets, the Air Force asked Raytheon to restart the laser-guided Maverick production line after a 15-year hiatus. The latest laser-guided Maverick will incorporate state-of-the-art seeker technology that is expected to improve on Maverick's proven combat record. Raytheon anticipates laser-guided Maverick production for the Air Force, Navy and international customers as early as 2009.

Maverick is the most widely used precision-guided missile in the world. Maverick has been upgraded to meet evolving threats and played a key role in recent conflicts.

Raytheon Company, with 2006 sales of $20.3 billion, is a technology leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 85 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000 people worldwide.

  Note to Editors:
  The Air Force used the AGM-65E Maverick in combat on June 14, 2007.

  Contact:
  Mike Nachshen
  520.794.4088
  Michael_nachshen@raytheon.com

SOURCE: Raytheon Company

CONTACT: Mike Nachshen of Raytheon Company, +1-520-794-4088,
Michael_nachshen@raytheon.com

Web site: http://www.raytheon.com/