AI3 successfully defeats first UAS target
Raytheon’s Accelerated Improved Intercept Initiative (AI3) system programme has reached a new milestone with the system’s successful defeat of a UAS in flight. The intercept was conducted as part of the second guided test flights for the programme.
AI3 is designed to protect warfighters by intercepting rockets and other threats in flight. The system’s battle element includes Ku radio frequency system (KRFS) fire control radar, Avenger-based AI3 launcher with technical fire control, counter rockets, artillery and mortars command and control, and the AI3 missile.
Steve Bennett, AI3 program director, Raytheon Missile Systems, said: ‘Defeating a UAS demonstrates the AI3 system has capabilities beyond its original requirements and can defeat a variety of threats to our warfighters today. This latest success is a testament to our strong partnership with the US Army and our team's commitment to meeting the customer's challenging schedule and cost requirements.’
Earlier in the test series, the system completed an in-flight defeat of a 107mm rocket. The US Army will conduct for-the-record testing of AI3 and continue to engage baseline and enhanced capability targets, including 107mm and other rockets, and UAS threats.
Raytheon provides the interceptor, technical fire control and KRFS radar, and serves as support to the government team for the programme.
More from Land Warfare
-
![How the US Marine Corps “increased” Marines’ shooting accuracy by 99%]()
How the US Marine Corps “increased” Marines’ shooting accuracy by 99%
The new small arms training approach includes the use of data and simulation capabilities, as well as more realistic environments.
-
![Lockheed nets $4.9 billion US Army contract to build more precision strike missiles]()
Lockheed nets $4.9 billion US Army contract to build more precision strike missiles
The PrSM missiles, known as Increment 1 weapon systems, will eventually replace the US Army’s Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS).
-
![US Army to field first human-machine platoon in two years]()
US Army to field first human-machine platoon in two years
The Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office plans to deploy armoured and infantry platoon configurations around FY2027.
-
![Avalon 2025: Hanwha signs engine deal with Penske for Redback IFVs]()
Avalon 2025: Hanwha signs engine deal with Penske for Redback IFVs
Penske Australia will also carry out local assembly and testing of Allison X1100 series cross-drive transmission under licence using kits supplied by South Korea's SNT Dynamics.
-
![Ovzon trials UGV comms in Arctic conditions]()
Ovzon trials UGV comms in Arctic conditions
Swedish company showcases Arctic UGV test as it eyes NATO defence market expansion.
-
![US Army Project Convergence to evaluate CJADC2 in the Indo-Pacific theatre]()
US Army Project Convergence to evaluate CJADC2 in the Indo-Pacific theatre
As part of its experimentation campaign, the service will assess CJADC2 concepts and capabilities in challenging environments.
