US Army Seeks Lightweight Air Defense System for Light Infantry Forces
Land
Summary
The US Army is seeking a lightweight, sled-mounted air defense system to support its light infantry forces. The system will provide short-range air defense capability during airborne assaults and joint force entry operations. The Army has issued a Request for Information (RFI) with a deadline of April 6, which specifies the solution as a Self-Loading Equipment Dock or pallet fitted with multiple kinetic and nonkinetic defenses. The system is expected to be mounted on various vehicles, including the Infantry Squad Vehicle and Robotic Combat Vehicle, and will target groups of small to medium-sized drones, fixed-wing aircraft, and helicopters. The Army aims to field the system in the 2027-2029 timeframe.
Key Takeaways
- 1. The US Army is seeking a lightweight air defense system that can be mounted on sleds or pallets and hauled by light vehicles during joint force entry operations.
- 2. The system will target groups of small to medium-sized drones, fixed-wing aircraft, and helicopters, as well as provide close air support to enemy troops.
- 3. The Army has issued an RFI with a deadline of April 6, which specifies the solution as a Self-Loading Equipment Dock or pallet fitted with multiple kinetic and nonkinetic defenses.
- 4. The system is expected to be mounted on various vehicles, including the Infantry Squad Vehicle and Robotic Combat Vehicle, and will maintain independent functionality after removal from the vehicle.
- 5. The Army aims to field the system in the 2027-2029 timeframe, leveraging existing programs of record and high-TRL components to hasten development.