US Army Seeks New Short-Range Guided Missile Capable of Engaging Tanks and Drones

The U.S. Army is actively seeking a new short-range guided missile designed to counter the evolving battlefield, particularly the proliferation of drones and the increasing reliance on precision-guided munitions. This initiative aims to equip forces with a versatile weapon system capable of engaging a diverse array of threats.

The Army's request specifies a missile that can be launched from multiple platforms, including helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ground vehicles, and even watercraft. This multi-platform capability is crucial for enhancing operational flexibility and responsiveness in various combat scenarios. The missile must possess all-weather operational capacity and maintain effectiveness even if GPS signals are jammed or countered by enemy electronic warfare measures.

Performance requirements include a minimum range of 500 meters and a maximum range of at least 8 kilometers, with compatibility with standard launchers. The intended targets encompass tanks, armored vehicles, command posts, air defense radars, small attack boats, and critically, drones. This broad targeting capability underscores the Army's objective to address multiple threats with a single, adaptable munition.

Recent combat examples highlight the need for such systems. Ukraine's 302nd Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade has demonstrated the integration of the AGM-114L 'Longbow Hellfire' missile with radar and military trucks for intercepting attack drones. This offers a more cost-effective alternative to deploying expensive systems like the Patriot missile. Similarly, the U.S. Marine Corps has acquired anti-drone vehicles equipped with AGM-114L missiles for aerial target interception.

The U.S. Army's procurement plan is ambitious, with a target for full-scale production by the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2028. Manufacturers are expected to deliver the first batch of 8,000 missiles and spare parts within two years of contract signing, maintaining this production rate thereafter. This aggressive timeline suggests a significant effort to bolster the Army's low-cost, precision-strike capabilities for both ground-attack and anti-drone missions.