U.S. Army Seeks Low‑Cost Surface‑to‑Air Missiles to Neutralise Small Drones

The U.S. Army has announced an intention to procure new surface‑to‑air missile systems that cost less than $150 000 per unit and are specifically designed to take down small drones.^[1]

Target‑specific System Criteria

According to the Army’s briefing, the desired missiles must be capable of engaging drones weighing a few dozen kilograms, typically those used in reconnaissance or struck‐and‑run attacks, without the need for expensive, heavy platforms.^[1]

Operational Need and Cost Constraints

Growing reports of drone swarm activity in conflict zones have highlighted the shortcomings of existing systems, which either lack the necessary agility or are too costly for widespread deployment on smaller units. The Army’s cost ceiling reflects a push toward fielding affordable solutions across a broad range of forces.^[1]

Next Steps: Development and Procurement

Defense officials plan to release a formal Request for Proposals later this year, inviting domestic manufacturers to compete for the contract. The Army expects to evaluate prototypes within the next six months and move toward field trials by mid‑2027.^[1]