RTX’s Raytheon has revealed successful completion of a series of ten subsystem demonstrations of its Next-Generation Short-Range Interceptor (NGSRI) solution for the US Army.
It marks a milestone in the development of the new missile system intended to replace the ageing Stinger surface-to-air missile (SAM).
The NGSRI is engineered to be compatible with the current Stinger vehicle universal launch system and the man-portable configuration.
Over the past few months, Raytheon’s industry team has concluded all ten subsystem tests, which included seeker, flight rocket motor, command launch assembly (CLA), and warhead.
The advanced seeker assembly of the NGSRI is said to have showcased range acquisition capabilities, surpassing the Stinger in both lab and field settings.
The NGSRI’s rocket motor, which is flight-ready, demonstrated its potential to increase the intercept range for short-range air defence manoeuvres.
In addition, the man-portable CLA proved its enhanced range for the detection and identification of aerial targets, even in challenging, low-visibility conditions, noted the company.
The missile warhead assembly was put to the test in arena trials, where it displayed consistent and precise lethality against a wide array of aerial threats.
The remaining six demonstrations dealt with essential missile functionalities, including tracking, guidance, aerodynamic control, fusing, and safety measures.
Raytheon Land & Air Defense Systems president Tom Laliberty said: “These successful subsystem demonstrations are a crucial step in meeting the US Army’s range and performance requirements for this transformational short-range air defence capability.
“We are confident in our ability to rapidly deliver the Army an affordable, low-risk, highly producible NGSRI solution.”
The programme is now progressing to the next stage, which involves soldier touchpoint exercises.
During these exercises, US Army soldiers and Marines will interact directly with Raytheon’s NGSRI solution, providing immediate feedback.
A system flight test demonstration is also on the agenda for later in 2025.
