Leidos, a US firm, was awarded a $617 million contract by the US Army for the production of launchers for the IFPC Increment 2 air defense system. The contract includes the delivery of over a hundred launchers and funding for research and testing activities until 2029.
This new order brings the total value of contracts for this system to nearly $1.2 billion when combined with the $356 million contracts awarded in July and September 2025. Leidos described these contracts as a significant investment in advancing towards full-scale production of the system.
The IFPC Increment 2 is a ground-based system designed to provide protection against cruise missiles and drones. Its adaptable structure allows for quick integration into existing command and control systems within the US Army. Compatibility with army transport platforms and standard trucks is a major advantage.
The main interceptor for this system will initially be the AIM-9X Sidewinder, with the army also exploring a second missile optimized for countering cruise missiles. This missile is expected to perform similarly to the AIM-120D AMRAAM while retaining the size of the AIM-9X. The system is also capable of using AGM-114L Longbow Hellfire missiles.
In the long term, the army plans to create “mixed” air defense battalions combining Patriot and IFPC systems to enhance its multi-layered air defense capabilities. Leidos, through its subsidiary Dynetics, has already proven its ability to accelerate the deployment of this essential technology by delivering an IFPC Inc 2 launcher prototype two months ahead of schedule.
