U.S. Army seeks new drone-killing missiles under $150,000

The U.S. Army has issued a sources-sought notice for the Next Generation Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft System Missile (NGCM) program, seeking a new interceptor to defeat Group 2 and Group 3 drones. The Army is looking for a missile that can target uncrewed aircraft weighing between 21 and 1,320 pounds at ranges exceeding 10 miles and altitudes above 6 kilometers, with future objectives aiming for 15 to 25 miles and 8 kilometers altitude.

Key technical requirements include a rapid launch capability, with the interceptor able to clear the launch rail within five seconds of an operator's command. The missile must be compatible with existing Coyote launchers with minimal to no modifications and must integrate with current radar systems, such as Patriot, Sentinel A3 and A4, and AN/TPQ-53. The Army intends to procure at least 5,000 units, requesting both fixed-site and mobile versions.

A central component of the request is a cost ceiling of $150,000 per round. This follows a previous development where AeroVironment's Freedom Eagle-1 was selected for a related program, suggesting the Army may be broadening the competitive field or resetting procurement terms. Industry responses are due by August 20.