Strategic Mid-Range Fires

The Strategic Mid-Range Fires program, as outlined in the Army's FY2026 Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget, is a critical component of the Army's Long Range Precision Fires (LRPF) modernization priority. The primary goal of this program is to develop and rapidly field advanced capabilities that can effectively counter evolving threats posed by peer and near-peer adversaries, particularly those employing sophisticated Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2/AD) systems. These threats include integrated air defense networks, long-range precision strike weapons, and advanced electronic warfare tactics. The program's objectives are tightly aligned with the Army's modernization strategy, aiming to ensure U.S. forces maintain overmatch in contested environments.

The central focus of the FY2026 budget request is the development and prototyping of the Common Autonomous Multi-Domain Launcher (CAML). CAML is envisioned as a mobile, autonomous, and optionally manned fires platform capable of launching a diverse array of offensive and defensive munitions across multiple domains. The system is designed to support munitions such as Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles (TLAM), Patriot Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptors, Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) Family of Munitions (MFOM), and Indirect Fires Protection Capability (IFPC) interceptors. CAML's development is intended to significantly enhance the Army's ability to penetrate and operate within contested environments, neutralize high-value targets, and provide responsive fires support to Combatant Commanders.

The Mid-Range Capability (MRC) Missiles project, which previously demonstrated a ground-launched capability using existing missile systems, serves as the foundation for the CAML initiative. The transition from MRC to CAML leverages lessons learned to accelerate development timelines and reduce technical risk. FY2026 funding will be used to finalize system design, procure prototype materials including tactical vehicles and munitions, fabricate hardware, integrate fire control and autonomy software, and conduct comprehensive developmental, safety, and live fire testing at U.S. government ranges.

A key objective of the CAML program is to provide Army formations at all echelons with a launcher that offers greater mobility, reduced emplacement and displacement times, improved crew survivability, and increased operational flexibility. The system is designed to be remotely operated via wireless communication or programmed for fully autonomous operation, allowing commanders to mass fires assets across multiple domains and rapidly respond to dynamic battlefield conditions.

The program also aims to integrate existing Army munitions and fire control systems to minimize development costs and accelerate capability delivery. The acquisition strategy for CAML utilizes the Middle Tier of Acquisition for Rapid Prototyping (MTA-RP) pathway. This approach is intended to quickly demonstrate and mature the platform's capabilities by leveraging ongoing Army efforts in autonomy, mobility, and munitions integration.

The program plans to award Other Transaction Authority for Prototyping (OTAP) contracts through a competitive process, contingent on Congressional appropriation. Planned deliverables include four CAML Heavy prototypes (capable of firing TLAM and PAC-3 MSE), two CAML Medium prototypes (for MFOM and IFPC), and one Autonomous Resupply Vehicle for CAML Medium, with development timelines ranging from 18 to 36 months.

The Strategic Mid-Range Fires program is structured to address both near-term and mid-term threats, with the FY2026 efforts focused on achieving key technical milestones such as the integration of Tomahawk TLAM and PAC-3 MSE interceptors onto the CAML Heavy prototype. The program will employ rigorous systems engineering and testing to mitigate integration risks and ensure the prototypes meet operational requirements. Considerations for manufacturability and production costs during prototyping will inform future scaling and fielding decisions.