Army Awarded $99 Million Contract for MOTH RF Detection
The five-year contract will provide passive electromagnetic detection capabilities to tactical units starting in 2027.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Cybersecurity
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The U.S. Army Contracting Command has awarded a $99 million contract to Los Angeles-based startup Heaviside Industries. This procurement covers the fielding and sustainment of the MOTH system, a passive radio frequency (RF) detection technology designed for tactical environments.
Why it matters
As electromagnetic spectrum operations (EMSO) become critical for maintaining tactical advantages, the Army is accelerating the deployment of lightweight signal detection tools to counter adversary exploitation. The MOTH system is intended to provide persistent situational awareness in the field.
The MOTH system is designed to detect signals across broad tactical electromagnetic frequency ranges in a device weighing less than one pound. It functions either as a standalone sensor or as a cueing tool to direct more intensive electronic warfare systems toward potential threats.
The players
Heaviside Industries
A startup founded in 2024 that specializes in tactical electromagnetic spectrum capabilities and passive signal detection hardware.
U.S. Army Contracting Command
The military organization based at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, responsible for procuring equipment and fielding technology for Army forces.
The details
The MOTH system utilizes passive RF detection, a method that monitors for emitted energy without broadcasting signals that could reveal a soldier's location. By scanning broad tactical frequency ranges, the device identifies nearby transmissions and provides the necessary data to trigger larger electronic warfare platforms. This mechanism allows for persistent monitoring in high-stakes electromagnetic environments while maintaining a low weight and power profile.
Timeline
2024: Heaviside Industries was founded in Los Angeles.
Fiscal Year 2027: Initial contract deliveries are expected to begin.
August 27, 2031: Estimated completion date for the five-year contract.
The Tech Race
This development aligns with the U.S. Army's Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (EMSO) strategy, which prioritizes the ability to detect and maneuver through contested spectrums. By integrating lightweight, passive detection into standard kits, the military is seeking to move beyond large, vehicle-mounted electronic warfare suites.
The deployment of the MOTH system will eventually provide tactical units with enhanced passive signal detection starting in Fiscal Year 2027. Future capability will depend on successful fielding and integration trials between the sensor hardware and existing electronic warfare infrastructure.
The takeaway
This contract marks a significant investment in lightweight sensor technology to secure the electromagnetic edge. Watch for initial fielding results in Fiscal Year 2027 to see if the device meets performance benchmarks in diverse environmental conditions.
Further reading
For broader trends in signal defense and tactical security, visit Cybersecurity.
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