MDA Awards Northrop Grumman $400 Million Contract for Hypersonic Glide Phase Interceptor

Sep 25, 2024, 08:12 PM

The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has awarded Northrop Grumman a contract to develop a first-of-its-kind hypersonic glide phase interceptor (GPI) designed to counter hypersonic missile threats. The GPI incorporates advanced technologies, including a seeker for threat tracking, hit-to-kill accuracy, a re-ignitable upper stage engine for threat containment, and a dual engagement mode for engaging threats across various altitudes. The Senate draft FY25 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) authorizes an additional $400 million for the GPI program, on top of the Biden Administration's $182 million request. However, the program did not receive additional funding in the Senate Appropriations Committee on Defense's draft Defense Appropriations Act. The program's budget profile for FY2025 is considered insufficient, and an increase is necessary to meet initial operational capability (IOC).