Launcher, 2.75 Rocket

The Launcher, 2.75 Rocket program is a key procurement line item within the Army's Aircraft Procurement budget, specifically under Support Equipment and Facilities. The primary objective of this program is to provide funding for the acquisition, sustainment, and integration of 2.75 Inch Hydra-70 Rocket Launchers, which are essential for the operational readiness of Army aviation platforms. The program is managed by the Aviation Rockets and Small Guided Munitions Product Office, which serves as the executive procurement agent for all services and Foreign Military Sales customers requiring these launcher systems.

The main goal of this line is to procure and support both the M261 (19-tube) and M260 (7-tube) analog rocket launchers. These launchers are designed to fire both guided and unguided 2.75 Inch Hydra-70 rockets from platforms such as the AH-64 Apache, H-60 Blackhawk, and various Special Operations aircraft. The launchers are non-repairable but are engineered to withstand at least 16 rocket firings per tube before disposal, ensuring a balance between durability and cost-effectiveness.

Procurement funding under this line item supports several objectives beyond the acquisition of launchers. It includes addressing obsolescence issues, ensuring safety and reliability, supporting weapon integration activities, and funding necessary engineering changes and production adjustments. This approach is intended to maintain the launchers' compatibility with evolving aircraft and munitions, as well as to meet the Army's operational requirements in diverse mission environments.

Another significant objective of this program is to support the resolution of production and sustainment challenges. This includes funding for test sets, engineering changes, and addressing any production issues that may arise during the manufacturing process. By doing so, the Army ensures that the launchers remain available and effective for both current and future operational needs.

For FY 2026, the budget justification specifically notes the procurement of M261 launchers for the Army, funded through Overseas Operations Costs (OOC). This funding is essential to maintain the Army's inventory and readiness, particularly for overseas and contingency operations. The increase in OOC funding from FY 2025 to FY 2026 is attributed to unit price growth due to contract pricing adjustments.

The Launcher, 2.75 Rocket program is also justified under Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, which mandates that such items are necessary for use by both active and reserve components of the Armed Forces. The launchers support a range of missions, including homeland defense, domestic emergency response, and military support to civil authorities, further underlining their strategic importance.