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The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has selected Northrop Grumman for its Glide Phase Interceptor (GPI) program, aimed at countering hypersonic missile threats. These missiles pose significant challenges due to their high speeds and unpredictable paths, making existing defense systems inadequate. Both Northrop Grumman and Raytheon submitted designs for the GPI program, but only Northrop Grumman's was chosen to proceed with prototype development. Following this decision, Raytheon contested the selection through a legal challenge.
General Gregory M. Guillot of the North American Aerospace Defense Command highlighted hypersonics as "probably the most technologically challenging threat that we’re facing, as well as the most destabilizing."
Northrop Grumman's design focuses on advanced materials and next-generation guidance technology to intercept missiles during their glide phase. It is designed to integrate with the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense system used by the US Navy and MDA’s network. The interceptor will use advanced sensors and a predictive guidance system to counter highly maneuverable threats.
