BlueHalo has been chosen by the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Aviation & Missile Center (CCDC AvMC) Aviation & Missile Technology Consortium (AMTC) as one of two vendors to develop the Next-Generation Counter-Uncrewed Aerial System (C-UAS) Missile (NGCM). This selection marks a significant step in enhancing the Army’s defense capabilities against rapidly evolving aerial threats.

The U.S. Army’s decision to down-select BlueHalo is based on the company’s extensive background in C-UAS technologies. BlueHalo’s development of the NGCM aims to expand its layered defense solutions, incorporating a long-range missile to enter the kinetic interceptor market. This new system is designed to counter sophisticated and increasing drone threats effectively.

Strategic Importance

Jonathan Moneymaker, BlueHalo Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the growing threat of drone attacks observed in various conflict zones such as Ukraine, Jordan, Israel, and the Red Sea. He highlighted the importance of the NGCM’s capabilities, including increased range, reduced time-to-target, and rapid launch, which enhance BlueHalo’s existing RF and directed energy C-UAS solutions. These advancements are expected to provide comprehensive protection for military personnel and assets.

The NGCM is engineered to exceed current C-UAS capabilities by offering increased lethality and range, particularly against Group 3 UAS and other large aerial threats. BlueHalo’s approach focuses on delivering this technology rapidly and cost-effectively to frontline operations.

Jimmy Jenkins, General Manager of BlueHalo’s Defense Sector, stated that the NGCM introduces a technically superior interceptor to the munition industrial base, promising to transform national air defense systems with agility and disruptive technology.

BlueHalo’s Existing C-UAS Solutions

BlueHalo has a robust portfolio of C-UAS solutions, including:

• SkyView System: An autonomous RF detection and precision tracking system for small UAS.
• Titan System: An RF-based solution that detects, tracks, and forces drones to safely land without interfering with nearby communications.
• LOCUST Directed Energy Laser Weapon System: A precision optical and laser system combined with advanced software and AI to engage a variety of targets with high-energy lasers.

These systems have been successfully deployed and operationally proven, positioning BlueHalo as a leader in innovative defense technologies.

Industry Implications

The selection of BlueHalo for the NGCM development signifies a strategic enhancement in the U.S. Army’s capabilities to counter evolving aerial threats. The integration of advanced technologies such as the NGCM into the Army’s defense systems will likely provide a significant tactical advantage.