US Army seeks Mach 5 missiles under $1 million to defend against drone raids

The U.S. Army has issued an RFI for MOSAIC-26-03, a new low-cost interceptor family for air and missile defense.

The Army wants mature technologies ready for demos by FY2026, with a missile priced under $1 million, Mach 5+ speed, and a range of more than 120 miles.

The interceptor must integrate with Patriot launchers and IBCS to counter drones, cruise missiles, aircraft, and short-range ballistic threats.

The effort aims to preserve scarce Patriot PAC-3 MSE stocks for tougher targets by using cheaper interceptors in larger numbers.

The requirement reflects lessons from modern missile warfare, including the need for affordable defenses against mass drone and missile raids.