INDIRECT FIRE PROTECTION CAPABILITY INC 2-I

The Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 (IFPC Inc 2) program is a key element of the Army's Air and Missile Defense Modernization Priorities. It is designed to address evolving threats from cruise missiles, unmanned aircraft systems, and rocket, artillery, and mortar attacks. The program's primary objective is to deliver a ground-based weapon system capable of acquiring, tracking, engaging, and defeating a wide array of aerial threats. This enhances the Army's ability to protect critical assets and personnel in contested environments.

The IFPC Inc 2 system integrates launchers and interceptors with the Army Integrated Air and Missile Defense open systems architecture, the IAMD Battle Command System, and the Sentinel sensor. This integration supports coordinated fire control and sensor fusion, enabling the system to respond rapidly to incoming threats. The program supports the Air and Missile Defense Cross Functional Team and aligns with broader Army transformation initiatives, ensuring interoperability with other air and missile defense assets.

Procurement objectives for FY 2026 include acquiring IFPC Inc 2 launchers, AIM-9X interceptors, and IFPC magazines. Additional AIM-9X missiles and associated magazines will be procured using mandatory reconciliation funds, as detailed in Section 20003 (Missile Defense) of the Reconciliation Exhibit. The procurement strategy leverages cost efficiencies from increased quantities and contract negotiations. The Army aims to maximize procurement through price advantages and potential foreign military sales.

The AIM-9X interceptor and magazine procurement line funds the acquisition of these interceptors and magazines. The AIM-9X is adapted for ground-based use, with modifications including a new warhead and specialized containers for Army requirements. Raytheon, in partnership with the U.S. Navy, is the primary contractor, with production and delivery schedules extending through FY 2029. The program benefits from unit cost reductions due to increased procurement volumes and collaboration with Navy contracts.

The launcher and associated training equipment procurement line covers the acquisition of launchers and training equipment. Dynetics, based in Huntsville, Alabama, is the primary contractor for launcher production. Unit costs are expected to decrease as production ramps up. This line also includes funding for government-furnished equipment, training aids, simulators, and integrated logistics support, ensuring that units receiving the new systems are fully equipped and trained for operational deployment. Additional costs cover engineering services, contractor support, and pre-production efforts necessary to sustain increased production rates.

Interim capabilities have been provided through the procurement of the Israeli Iron Dome Defense System Army, with two batteries delivered to the Army for rapid deployment. One battery is stationed in the continental United States and the other outside the continental United States, providing immediate counter-missile defense capability while IFPC Inc 2 is fielded. The Army has also leased Iron Dome assets to the Government of Israel, reflecting ongoing international cooperation and asset utilization.