Predator Hellfire Missile

The Predator Hellfire Missile program, detailed in the Department of Defense (DoD) budget line item PRDTA2, is focused on the procurement of Hellfire missiles for the United States Air Force. The primary objective of this program is to provide precision-kill capability for Air Force platforms, specifically the MQ-9 Reaper aircraft, which are extensively used in overseas operations. The Hellfire missile system is recognized for its effectiveness against a range of targets and its ability to counter advanced countermeasures through semi-active laser terminal guidance.

The program is managed in close coordination with the Army, which serves as the Lead Service for the Hellfire Missile program. Air Force Hellfire missiles are procured through the Army's Redstone Arsenal, leveraging joint service efficiencies and centralized procurement processes. This arrangement ensures interoperability and cost-effectiveness, as procurement quantities and unit costs are influenced by overall demand from the Army, other services, and Foreign Military Sales (FMS).

Funding for the Predator Hellfire Missile program supports the entire lifecycle of the Hellfire system. This includes addressing obsolescence, end-of-life buys, safety enhancements, insensitive munitions upgrades, reliability improvements, weapon integration activities, test set procurement, engineering changes, and modifications. The program also covers production ramp-up activities and the resolution of production issues, ensuring the continued availability and effectiveness of the Hellfire missile inventory.

A significant goal of the program is to address Diminishing Manufacturing Sources (DMS), material shortages, and obsolescence issues. This is achieved through studies, bridge buys, life-of-type purchases, supplier and parts replacement, and qualification activities. These efforts are particularly important for electronic components that are commercially used and may be in short supply, thereby preserving future production capabilities and capacities for the Hellfire system.

Procurement quantities for the Hellfire missile are subject to variation based on negotiated options, pricing bands, and available funding, in accordance with Title 10, U.S. Code Section 2308 (Buy-to-Budget Acquisition). The program is designed to be flexible, allowing for adjustments to inventory objectives based on combatant commanders' operational requirements and evolving Operational Plans. This ensures that the Air Force maintains an adequate inventory to meet both planned and emerging mission needs.

As of FY2024, the Hellfire procurement under this line item has been completed, and no future procurements are currently expected for FY2026 and beyond. Inventory objectives have been met, and any future requirements will be addressed on an emerging basis, potentially through inventoried items or adjustments during the execution year. The budget documentation reflects zero funding requests for FY2026, indicating the program's transition from active procurement to sustainment and inventory management.