US Army seeking launched effects for rapid adoption

A prototype LE-Medium Range lofted during testing in February 2024. The army's new solicitation makes clear the service's intention to introduce such LEs into service rapidly. (US Army/Program Executive Office, Aviation)

The US Army is seekingair- and ground-launched effects (LEs) with a range of at least 40 km that can be delivered within four to six months of a contract award, according to a 5 August solicitation. The LEs are intended to equip brigades, divisions, and corps.

“The objective of this effort is to rapidly procure and issue LE systems that are interoperable, modular, and ready for operational evaluation,” the solicitation said. “The US Army lacks an inventory of LEs that can be deployed and evaluated by soldiers in near-term tactical environments.”

The solicitation notes that army leadership directed the service to incorporate LEs into every division and task force by 2026.

The army divided its requested capabilities into primary and secondary priorities.

The first priorities include vehicles capable of carrying both electro-optic/infrared (EO/IR) and “inert lethal payloads”, according to the solicitation. They are meant to feature autonomous capabilities, such that they can avoid collision with one another when operating in groups and perform missions without the need for operator intervention, although they should also be capable of retasking on command. The LEs should be able to remain on station 40 km from launch for an unspecified amount of time.