The US Army is poised to rewrite the air defense playbook with the Multi-Domain Artillery Cannon (MDAC) program.
This groundbreaking initiative, published by the Pentagon in a special notice earlier this month, seeks a platform that promises to deliver a highly mobile, self-propelled system firing hypersonic projectiles.
It is also said to offer a cost-effective and adaptable alternative to traditional missile systems.
Multi-Domain Artillery CannonA Paradigm Shift for Expeditionary Forces
The MDAC, shortened for Multi-Domain Artillery Cannon, system departs from the traditional, cumbersome air defense platforms.
The Army seeks a wheeled design that prioritizes rapid deployment and maneuverability, making it a game-changer for expeditionary forces.
Imagine a scenario where a rapidly deployable air defense network can be established in a matter of hours, safeguarding forward operating bases or critical infrastructure from aerial threats.
This agility provides a significant tactical advantage in today’s dynamic and often unpredictable battlefields.
Cost-Conscious Defense with Hypersonic Punch
The program’s heart lies in the utilization of hypervelocity projectiles (HVPs) instead of expensive surface-to-air missiles.
Developed by BAE Systems, these projectiles are technological marvels, capable of reaching speeds exceeding Mach 5 – five times the speed of sound.
“The HVP is a next-generation, common, low-drag, guided projectile,” as described by BAE Systems. It travels at such a velocity that it offers a “kinetic kill” option against drones and cruise missiles and is capable of executing multiple missions for several gun systems, including:
- 5-Inch (Navy);
- 155-mm systems (Navy, Marine Corps, and Army); and
- Future electromagnetic (EM) railguns.
The HVP can be further augmented with explosives for situations requiring additional destructive power.
But perhaps the most compelling aspect of the HVP is its cost-effectiveness.
With a price tag of $86,000 per round (2018), HVPs are a fraction of the price tag associated with traditional missiles, significantly reducing logistical burdens and enabling a more sustainable defense posture.
Networked for Enhanced Effectiveness
The MDAC system won’t operate in isolation.
It will seamlessly integrate with existing US Army defense networks, including the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) and the Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) network.
This ensures the system receives real-time targeting data from a constellation of sensors, maximizing its effectiveness against incoming aerial threats.
Building on a Legacy of Innovation
The HVP program leverages past advancements.
Initially designed for railguns, these projectiles have undergone a successful adaptation process, demonstrating their versatility and potential.
They have been integrated with existing artillery systems, including 127mm naval guns and the widely deployed 155mm howitzers.
A 2020 demonstration highlighted the HVP’s precision by successfully engaging a target drone using a M109A6 Paladin self-propelled howitzer.
This practical demonstration serves as a testament to the program’s feasibility and effectiveness.
The Road to Deployment
The Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) is currently seeking proposals for prototype development.
Contracts are expected to be awarded in the third quarter of fiscal year 2025, with deliveries anticipated by Fall 2027.
Following extensive testing and refinement, the MDAC system is poised to become a vital addition to the US Army’s air defense arsenal by the end of this decade.
The MDAC program represents a significant leap forward in air defense technology. It promises a future where mobility, cost-effectiveness, and cutting-edge weaponry combine to revolutionize the US Army’s ability to counter aerial threats on the modern battlefield.
This innovative system not only bolsters American air defense capabilities but also sends a strong message of technological leadership and a commitment to deterring future conflicts.
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