Defense of Guam Procurement

The Defense of Guam Procurement line item (MD65) in the Department of Defense (DoD) FY 2026 budget supports the acquisition and integration of advanced missile defense capabilities for the protection of Guam. Managed by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), this program is a key component of the Pacific Deterrence Initiative (PDI) and is designed to address the evolving missile threat environment in the Indo-Pacific region. The primary goal is to establish a persistent, 360-degree integrated air and missile defense system that can defend Guam against a range of ballistic, cruise, and hypersonic missile threats.

The Defense of Guam Procurement request for FY 2026 includes both discretionary and mandatory (reconciliation) funding. The mandatory funds are specifically allocated for the procurement of the S-band Missile Communication Radar and the Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) System. These systems are critical for enabling real-time data sharing and coordinated engagement among distributed sensors and interceptors, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness and survivability of the missile defense architecture on Guam.

The Aegis Guam System is the central element of this procurement line. The system integrates the Aegis Weapon System, distributed Mk-41 Vertical Launching Systems (VLS), and a single Tactical Array Unit Army Navy/Transportable Radar Surveillance and Control-6. The objective is to provide a robust, layered defense that leverages proven Navy and Army technologies.

Initial Aegis Guam System capability was demonstrated on Guam in calendar year 2024, with full terminal defense capability scheduled for delivery in calendar year 2029. The procurement strategy emphasizes phased delivery and integration to ensure timely operational capability while accommodating evolving requirements.

The Ancillary Equipment component includes upgrades such as inertial navigation systems, gigabit Ethernet data multiplex systems, universal control consoles, and spares. These items are essential for maintaining system reliability, supporting command and control functions, and ensuring the resilience of the overall architecture.

The majority of ancillary equipment was procured in FY 2023 and FY 2024, with remaining requirements addressed in FY 2025 and FY 2026 to complete the architecture.

The Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) segment encompasses global positioning navigation and timing systems, command and control processor upgrades, joint tactical terminals, and shipping containers. The goal is to provide a secure and resilient communications backbone for the Guam defense system, enabling integrated battle management and continuity of operations.

The C4I procurement is closely coordinated with the Joint Command Center and other mission nodes to ensure seamless interoperability across all service components.

The Vertical Launching System (VLS) procurement includes launcher module enclosures, control units, and support equipment necessary for missile storage and rapid launch capability. While specific quantities and delivery locations are classified, the majority of VLS material was purchased in FY 2024 to support initial deployment and integration. The VLS is a critical enabler for the layered defense approach, allowing for flexible and scalable missile engagement options.

The Defense of Guam Procurement line item is structured to deliver a comprehensive, integrated missile defense solution for Guam. The program's objectives are to procure, integrate, and field advanced sensor, command and control, and interceptor technologies in close coordination with the U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force. The phased procurement approach, justified by evolving threat assessments and operational requirements, ensures that Guam will have a modern, resilient, and effective missile defense architecture capable of addressing current and future challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.