Pentagon launches race for cheap 600-mile strike weapon with rapid testing plan

The Pentagon’s Defense Innovation Unit has launched the Ground-Based Affordable Mass challenge to speed development of cheap long-range strike weapons.

It is seeking ground-launched systems with at least 600 nautical miles of range, a 35-pound payload, GPS-denied resilience, and a flyaway cost under $250,000 at scale.

US and allied companies must first submit a pitch deck or white paper, then aim for a November flight demo within 60 to 90 days.

Selected teams can win cash prizes, follow-on funding, and access to as much as $250 million in government support for prototypes and production.