Boeing and defense technology firm Anduril Industries have formed a partnership to develop a high-speed interceptor missile aimed at strengthening the US Army’s layered air and missile defense architecture. The collaboration focuses on delivering a new mid-range interceptor under the Army’s Integrated Fires Protection Capability (IFPC) Increment 2 Second Interceptor program.
The interceptor is intended to counter low-altitude, mid-range threats, including cruise missiles and one-way attack drones, which have become increasingly prominent in modern conflict environments. As part of the partnership, Anduril will provide the missile’s solid rocket motor, a critical propulsion component designed to ensure rapid acceleration and high engagement speeds. Boeing, meanwhile, will lead system design, integration, and overall program execution.
Boeing confirmed that development will proceed under an Other Transaction Authority (OTA) Project Agreement signed with the US Army on December 5, allowing for accelerated development and flexible acquisition. The companies aim to deliver a solution that balances operational performance, affordability, and interoperability, ensuring seamless integration with existing short- and long-range air defense systems operated by the Army.
Before launching this effort, the US Army relied on the AIM-9X Sidewinder missile as an interim ground-based air defense solution. While the Sidewinder—originally designed for air-to-air combat—proved effective against drones and cruise missiles, it was not optimized for sustained mid-range air defense operations. The Boeing–Anduril interceptor is expected to close this capability gap with a purpose-built, scalable solution tailored to evolving aerial threats.
