Stand In Attack Weapon

The Stand In Attack Weapon (SiAW) program, managed by the Air Force, is focused on developing a missile system to engage rapidly relocatable targets in Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2/AD) environments. Key targets include Theater Ballistic Missile Launchers, Land Attack and Anti-Ship Cruise Missile Launchers, Jammers, Anti-Satellite Systems, and Integrated Air Defense Systems. This initiative utilizes a Digital Acquisition approach that emphasizes agility and innovation, leveraging the Navy's Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range (AARGM-ER) program for interim combat capability.

The SiAW program aims to integrate the missile system onto 5th Generation and Future Advanced Aircraft such as the F-35. This involves developing an improved warhead/fuze and ensuring compatibility with the Universal Armament Interface (UAI) and Mission Planning systems. The program also focuses on establishing a modular and adaptable industrial base through digital acquisition principles like Open, Agile, and Digital frameworks. Collaboration with other weapon systems is intended to reduce redundant costs through common component development.

Furthermore, the SiAW program invests in enhancing analytical capabilities, data management, digital environments, networks, facilities, and security infrastructure to support its development. It engages with Department of Defense (DoD), Department of the Air Force (DAF), and industry stakeholders to refine threat analysis and inventory requirements while planning for future upgrades. The program builds on successful laboratory research efforts applicable to its capabilities and supports performance audits as required by U.S.C. Chapter 9A.

The acquisition strategy for SiAW involves a multi-phase approach that integrates advanced technologies into a Model-Based System Engineering environment. Initial phases focus on rapid prototyping under the Middle Tier of Acquisition framework, aiming for integration on surrogate aircraft within five years. Subsequent phases will transition to Major Capability Acquisition to enhance capabilities further and integrate the system onto the F-35A. Key elements include implementing a Weapon Open System Architecture and Agile Software Development methodologies.