U.S. Army Prepares for Next-Gen Air Defense with Leidos' Indirect Fire Protection Capability Launchers.

On April 23, 2025, American defense company Leidos announced that it is preparing to advance the production of its Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 (IFPC Inc 2) launchers, marking a pivotal step in the U.S. Army’s air and missile defense modernization efforts. This strategic move follows a significant contract award from the Army’s Program Executive Office for Missiles and Space (PEO M&S), underscoring the critical role of the IFPC Inc 2 system in addressing an expanding array of aerial threats. Engineered to neutralize unmanned aerial systems (UAS), cruise missiles, and rocket, artillery, and mortar (RAM) projectiles, the system bridges a key capability gap between short-range air defenses and long-range strategic systems like THAAD and Patriot.
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The IFPC (Indirect Fire Protection Capability) Inc 2 system—a mobile, ground-based launcher—provides 360-degree coverage and rapid reload capabilities, designed to counter drones, cruise missiles, and artillery threats. (Picture source: Leidos)

In December 2024, Leidos secured an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract worth up to $4.1 billion. This contract includes provisions for Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP), Full-Rate Production (FRP), and a broad range of support services. The initial delivery order under this contract authorizes the production of 18 launchers, which will be deployed as part of the Guam Defense Systems (GDS). The contract runs through December 2026, with further orders extending to 2029, reflecting the long-term strategic investment in the IFPC Inc 2 program.

The IFPC (Indirect Fire Protection Capability) Inc 2 system is a mobile, ground-based weapon platform offering 360-degree coverage and rapid reload capabilities. It is fully integrated with the U.S. Army’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) network, allowing for a modular and scalable approach to air defense. Built on an open architecture framework, the system enables flexible configuration and effector integration. While it currently utilizes the AIM-9X Sidewinder missile, it is designed for compatibility with future interceptors to adapt to evolving threats.

The development of IFPC Inc 2 traces back to September 24, 2021, when the U.S. Army awarded a three-year prototype Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreement to Dynetics, a subsidiary of Leidos. Valued at approximately $237.38 million, the OTA covered the development and delivery of 16 launcher prototypes, 60 interceptors, and associated all-up-round magazines. Prototype development was planned in Huntsville, Alabama, and Tucson, Arizona, with deliveries for testing scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2022. The goal was to have the first combat-capable IFPC Increment 2 battery operational by the fourth quarter of FY2023, with a Milestone C procurement decision expected in the second quarter of FY2024 and the first full battalion fielded by FY2026.

The IFPC Increment 2 interceptor variant is notable for its open architecture design, which supports the integration of multiple missile types. Besides the AIM-9X, the system can employ the AGM-114L Longbow variant of the Hellfire missile. The U.S. Army is also conducting tests with the Israeli Tamir missile, the interceptor used in Israel’s Iron Dome system, showcasing the system’s versatility and potential for international technology integration.

The Enduring Shield launcher, a key component of the IFPC Inc 2 system, has already demonstrated success in intercepting UAS and cruise missile threats during flight testing. These trials confirm the system’s operational effectiveness and readiness for deployment.

Importantly, the IFPC Inc 2 launchers are expected to significantly enhance the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) Pacific Deterrence Initiative. Their deployment in Guam will strengthen regional defense capabilities and serve as a deterrent against adversaries, reinforcing U.S. strategic commitments in the Indo-Pacific region.

As the U.S. Army explores the integration of additional interceptor technologies, including a second missile variant designed to counter both subsonic and supersonic cruise missiles, a technology demonstration phase is expected between FY2026 and FY2027. These efforts are crucial for maintaining the system’s relevance against a dynamic threat environment.

Leidos’ ongoing preparations for expanded production and system integration signify a robust commitment to advancing U.S. air defense capabilities. The IFPC Inc 2’s flexibility, interoperability, and proven performance position it as a central pillar of the Army’s future defense strategy.