Raytheon, a business unit of RTX, has completed a key technical demonstration for the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Short Range Interceptor (NGSRI) program. The test, conducted at the Dugway Proving Grounds in Utah, confirmed the system’s ability to detect, track, and destroy aerial threats.
During the demonstration, multiple guided missiles were fired from the company’s soldier-portable Command Launch Assembly. Each launch resulted in direct hits against Army-simulated targets, validating the missile’s lethality and precision.
The NGSRI is designed to eventually replace the Stinger surface-to-air missile. The new system utilizes precision optics in the missile seeker and a highly loaded grain solid rocket motor produced by Northrop Grumman. These components work together to extend the engagement range significantly beyond current capabilities.
Tom Laliberty, president of Land and Air Defense Systems at Raytheon, stated that the NGSRI locks onto targets faster and sees farther than the Stinger. He described the new system as easier to build and field, aiming to provide a more capable and affordable weapon for the military.
Over the last year, Raytheon has performed several company-funded tests to refine the NGSRI. The company has also completed two incremental demonstrations under contract with the Army. The missile is designed to be fired from both vehicles and shoulder-mounted launchers.
As the current manufacturer of the Stinger missile and launchers, Raytheon is working to ensure the NGSRI is fully interoperable with existing mounted platforms. The design draws on more than 60 years of air defense experience to create a shoulder-launched system for the Army and Marine Corps.