MARINE CORPS AIR DEFENSE WEAPONS SYSTEMS

The Marine Corps Air Defense Weapons Systems program is focused on enhancing the capabilities of the Low Altitude Air Defense (LAAD) Battalion. It aims to provide Short Range Air Defense (SHORAD) and Medium Range Air Defense to support the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF). This initiative equips maneuver forces, bases, posts, and stations with advanced force protection against a wide range of threats, including hostile aerial threats from Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). The program emphasizes acquiring more lethal and survivable air defense weapon systems, such as Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs) with armored protection, which offer increased Counter-UAS capabilities.

A significant component of this program is the Medium Range Intercept Capability (MRIC), designed to defend fixed and operationally fixed sites primarily against cruise missile threats. It also addresses UAS and other aerial threats within its Weapons Engagement Zone (WEZ). MRIC will be integrated into the Integrated Air Missile Defense (IAMD) Family of Systems to provide a layered defense strategy. The system's development includes integration testing and engineering changes based on Quick Reaction Assessment findings to ensure readiness for rapid fielding.

The Marine Corps is also focusing on replacing the Stinger missile, which is becoming obsolete against current and emerging air threats. By leveraging the US Army's efforts in developing a new interceptor, the Marine Corps aims to enhance target acquisition, range, and lethality. Additionally, the Installations-Counter small Unmanned Aircraft System (I-CsUAS) provides protection for critical assets on installations from small UAS threats, enhancing force protection both domestically and internationally.

Congressional additions have supported various initiatives within this program. These include developing radar augmentation for counter-cruise missile missions using the Extended Multi-Mission Hemispheric Radar (exMHR), advancing MRIC capabilities for deployment certification, and supporting next-generation counter-UAS solutions like the Expeditionary-Mobile Air Defense Integrated System (X-MADIS). These efforts collectively aim to bolster the Marine Corps' air defense capabilities in response to evolving threats.