The U.S. Army is calling on organisations for insights into the development of advanced missile interceptor technologies. A Request for Information (RFI) has been issued by the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities DEVCOM Aviation and Missile Center (AVMC). The request seeks to gather market research on new systems aimed at enhancing C-sUAS capabilities.
The RFI focuses on interceptor technologies that could contribute to the development of a new missile for the Stinger Vehicle Universal Launcher (SVUL). This system is intended to have an extended range and increased effectiveness in addressing threats posed by UAS, specifically groups 2 and 3, which are capable of operating at higher altitudes and greater standoff ranges.
The Army is looking for innovative concepts that will drive the development of long-range kinetic interceptors. These interceptors will provide manoeuvre forces with quick-response capabilities, improved lethality and reduced reaction and reload times in both mobile and fixed-site scenarios.
Objectives of the XRC program
The XRC program seeks to push the boundaries of missile technology to counter the evolving UAS threat. The main goals of the program include:
- Increasing range and lethality of interceptor missiles.
- Reducing reaction time and reload time to enhance response capabilities in operational environments.
- Improving missile reliability for use in combat.
- Ensuring compatibility with the SVUL and Forward Area Air Defence Command and Control systems.
- Ensuring integration with existing Army air defence systems for multi-domain operations.
The Army also seeks to maintain lethality against traditional Mobile Short-Range Air Defence (MSHORAD) targets, expanding the utility of the proposed interceptors across different defence systems.
Starting in fiscal year 2025, the Army plans to partner with industry leaders to develop technologies while maintaining internal research teams to verify and collaborate on the progress of these systems. The end goal is to demonstrate a prototype by FY30, capable of responding to threats posed by high-altitude UAS in a variety of operational contexts.
Crédit photographique : Video by Maj. Robert Fellingham, 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command
