US Army seeks new M-LIDS production, future capability support

M-LIDS has been tested by US Army soldiers, primarily in the Central Command area of responsibility. (US Army)

The US Army has kicked off its search for new capability for one of its latest counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UASs), according to a recent solicitation from the service.

Since the mobile-low, slow, small-unmanned aircraft integrated defeat system (M-LIDS) was deployed into combat in 2024, the service is looking to add capability with new development activities, according to a request for information that contractors were directed to respond to by 9 January. Future variants could include new C-UASs as well as counter-improvised explosive device electronic warfare systems, according to the release.

M-LIDS, as it currently exists, is made up of Coyote missiles, a 30 mm cannon, a .50 calibre gun, and an M240 7.62 mm crew-served weapon. For non-kinetic needs, an electronic warfare system, an electro-optic/infrared (EO/IR) camera, and Ku-band radio frequency system radars are included. All of this equipment is mounted on an Oshkosh Defense mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) all-terrain vehicle (M-ATV).

In 2024 officials announced that future development would include a new platform with all capabilities mounted on a Stryker infantry fighting vehicle.

Limited information was known about the capability of future increments or variants of the programme. One capability that has been funded for future versions is the 30×113 mm multimode proximity airburst munition, which would be on the M-LIDS and other C-UAS capabilities with a 30 mm cannon, according to budget documents.

While the request does not specify specific capabilities it is looking for in future variants, it notes that requirements are expected to be able to produce “other versions developed in response to threat and requirement changes”, according to the request.