Pentagon awards X-Bow Systems contract for low-cost missile interceptors

The Pentagon's Missile Defense Agency has signed an approximately $11 million contract with New Mexico-based rocket manufacturer X-Bow Systems to develop low-cost interceptor missiles. The program aims to create modular interceptors capable of countering ballistic and hypersonic missile threats.

A primary objective is to reduce launch costs to under $750,000 per shot, which would be roughly one-fifth the cost of current Patriot interceptor missiles that cost approximately $3.9 million each. X-Bow Systems intends to use proprietary 3D printing technology to manufacture solid rocket motors and propellants, aiming to bypass existing production bottlenecks and reduce reliance on major suppliers like Northrop Grumman and Aerojet Rocketdyne.

The funds from this contract will be utilized for motor development processes and initial flight testing.