US Army Seeks Supersonic Cruise Missile Interceptor for New Air Defense System
The US Army is seeking a second interceptor for the Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 (IFPC Inc 2) system to knock out supersonic cruise missiles and large-caliber rockets.
The IFPC Inc 2 is a mobile, ground-based weapon system designed to counter subsonic cruise missiles, unmanned aircraft systems, rockets, artillery, and mortars.
First IFPC Battery in 2023
The system can engage multiple targets simultaneously, providing a 360-degree air defense envelope, according to Dynetics. The company was selected in 2021 to deliver 16 launcher prototypes, 60 interceptors, and associated “all-up-round” magazines for the IFPC Inc 2 program.
The Leidos subsidiary employs the AIM-9X Sidewinder missile as the interceptor.
The first IFPC battery is expected to be delivered to the US Army by the end of 2023.
The System
The IFPC consists of a launcher, an interceptor — stored in an all-up-round magazine — a weapons interface controller, and engagement calculator software.
“The US Army’s Sentinel radar serves as the sensor and the US Army’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System serves as the fire control component at the platoon level (comprising four launchers),” the Army Aviation and Missile Command (AAMCOM) notice explained.
Second Interceptor Demos in 2025, 2026
The system is part of a larger US Army effort to improve its long-neglected short-range air defense capabilities.
The AAMCOM request for information specifies the interceptor to have an open system architecture for future capabilities growth without significant redesigning.
Technology demonstrations are expected in 2025 and 2026, including “all digital simulation, hardware-in-the-loop, and/or live fire demonstration.”
