Future Interceptor

The Future Interceptor program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0604403A, is a key component of the Army's Air and Missile Defense (AMD) Modernization Priority. The primary goal of this program is to develop an advanced interceptor capable of defending against current and emerging air, missile, and hypersonic threats within the lower tier of the ballistic missile defense battlespace. The program aims to enhance AMD capabilities by improving interceptor velocity, altitude, and maneuverability. This is intended to provide a more robust defense against sophisticated threats from near-peer adversaries.

For Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, the program requests funding that includes discretionary and mandatory sources. The mandatory funds are specifically allocated to execute competitive contracts with industry partners, initiating the capability maturation phase. This phase is designed to achieve rapid prototyping of a Total Effector system, with the objective of delivering an operational capability to the warfighter as quickly as possible. The number of competitive contracts will be determined by industry responses to a Request for Information (RFI).

A significant portion of the program's objectives in FY 2026 focuses on continued development of the Virtual Missile Model (VMM). This digital modeling effort supports concept definition and informs the maturation of advanced technologies that may be integrated into the Future Interceptor. The VMM allows for detailed modeling and simulation work, which is critical for assessing technical feasibility, refining requirements, and reducing risk prior to hardware prototyping. The Army's Aviation and Missile Center (AvMC) provides subject-matter expertise to support this modeling and simulation effort.

The Program Development and Support line item encompasses technical work, concept definition, and the preparation of contracting structures and Requests for Proposal (RFPs) for subsequent development contracts. In FY 2025 and FY 2026, the program will continue to assess the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of critical technology elements and further derive technical performance requirements based on user needs as documented in the Capability Development Document. These activities are foundational for establishing the performance specifications that will guide future development and prototyping.

The Acquisition Strategy for the Future Interceptor leverages the Defense Ordnance Technology Consortium (DOTC) Other Transactions Agreements (OTA) to facilitate a competitive initial concept definition phase with multiple contractors. This approach enables the Army to evaluate a range of development strategies and technologies, using detailed modeling and simulation as well as prototype development of high-risk hardware. The results of this phase will inform the selection of the most advantageous acquisition strategy for subsequent development and fielding.

The program also includes funding for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)/Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) transfers, in accordance with federal requirements, to encourage innovation and participation from small businesses. Additionally, the program is integrated with broader efforts to improve survivability, resiliency, and effectiveness against advanced threats. Annual test and evaluation activities provide data to support program assessments and close identified performance gaps.

The FY 2026 budget request reflects a minor reduction for Advisory and Assistance Services, aligning with Executive Order 14222 and the Administration's cost efficiency initiatives. The Future Interceptor program is structured to rapidly advance critical technologies, leverage competitive industry participation, and deliver enhanced air and missile defense capabilities to address evolving threats in a timely and cost-effective manner.