Boeing and Anduril Industries have partnered to develop a new high-speed interceptor for the US Army’s Integrated Fires Protection Capability Increment 2 program. The initiative aims to deliver a purpose-built mid-range interceptor capable of countering cruise missiles, loitering munitions, and other low-altitude aerial threats. Under the collaboration, Anduril will provide the missile’s solid rocket motor, while Boeing leads system development under an OTA agreement signed in December. The interceptor is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing short- and long-range air defense networks. Previously, the Army relied on the AIM-9X Sidewinder as a stopgap solution for mid-range defense, adapting the air-to-air missile for ground-based use. While effective, the Sidewinder was not optimized for sustained mid-range missions. The Boeing-Anduril solution aims to close this gap with a dedicated, cost-effective interceptor tailored for layered defense operations.
