The Pentagon is launching a program to develop low-cost anti-drone missiles
The U.S. Army has begun searching for companies capable of developing an affordable surface-to-air missile to counter drones. The new project involves developing an effective anti-drone missile that meets specific requirements for cost and range.
The initiative is being implemented as part of the Next Generation Counter-Small UAS Missile (NGCM) program. Its goal is to develop a next-generation missile with increased range, rapid launch, and reduced time to target compared to existing interceptors.
According to the technical requirements, the new missile must be capable of destroying small and medium-sized unmanned aerial vehicles at ranges exceeding 16 km at altitudes up to 6 km, as well as at ranges exceeding 25 km at altitudes up to 8 km.
It is specifically noted that the missile must leave the launcher within five seconds of receiving a command from the operator. At the same time, its unit cost must not exceed $150,000, provided that at least 5,000 units are purchased.
Other requirements include compatibility with the Coyote Launcher without significant design changes. In addition, the missile must integrate with the U.S. counter-drone system, be compatible with Sentinel A3/A4, LTAMDS, Patriot, and TPQ-53 radars, and be equipped with an all-weather radio-frequency homing seeker.
Testing of the new weapon is scheduled to be completed by the end of fiscal year 2027, and the military expects to receive the first batch of 50 missiles in early fiscal year 2028.
This was reported with reference to the U.S. government’s website.
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