M-SHORAD - Procurement

The Maneuver-Short Range Air Defense (M-SHORAD) Procurement program, reflected in Line Item 8082C14300, is a critical component of the Army's Air and Missile Defense Modernization Priority. The primary goal of this program is to field the SGT STOUT air defense weapon system, which integrates ground-to-air missile launchers, advanced sensors, and a gun system onto a Stryker Combat Vehicle. This system is designed to provide maneuver formations and other tactical echelons with enhanced protection against low-altitude air threats, including fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and Group 3 unmanned aerial systems.

The SGT STOUT system specifically addresses the Army's need to counter an evolving suite of airborne threats that challenge the operational freedom of maneuver forces. The system's objectives include the ability to identify, track, and neutralize or destroy low-altitude threats while maintaining pace and survivability with maneuver brigades. The Army began fielding SGT STOUT in response to a FY 2018 Directed Requirement and transitioned to a Middle Tier Acquisition Rapid Fielding approach in FY 2024, reflecting the urgency and importance of this capability.

For FY 2026, the budget request supports the procurement of 44 SGT STOUT systems. Additional funding is allocated to procure four more SGT STOUT systems, as outlined in Section 20004 (Munitions and Supply Chain) of the Reconciliation Exhibit. The procurement also covers retrofit of single Stinger Vehicle Universal Launcher (SVUL) systems to dual SVUL configurations, initial spares, software maintenance, government-furnished equipment, fielding, and program management support.

The contracting strategy for M-SHORAD leverages an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity contract with General Dynamics Land Systems, which covers not only the production of the systems but also spares, engineering services, and logistics support. The FY 2026 procurement reflects the Army's ongoing commitment to fielding eight SGT STOUT battalions, with a total approved acquisition objective of 230 systems, including those procured under Directed Requirements, Public Interest Determinations, and Acquisition Decision Memorandums.

Key objectives for FY 2026 include not only the procurement of new systems but also the integration of dual SVULs, engineering services for Stinger Universal Electronics qualification and cyber maintenance, and the provision of training aids, devices, simulations, and simulators. The increased unit cost in FY 2026 reflects the dual SVUL configuration and additional engineering requirements. The procurement profile is structured to ensure that the Army can rapidly field and sustain these critical air defense capabilities in response to current and emerging threats.

Additional program elements include support for initial spares and repair parts, integrated logistics support, and government program management. These elements are essential for ensuring system readiness, sustainment, and lifecycle support. The program also provides for fielding and training activities to ensure that units receiving the SGT STOUT systems are fully prepared to operate and maintain them effectively.