US Army Grenadier System Integrates Counter-Drone Ammunition After Nearly Two Decades | ADrones
AI Analysis
The U.S. Army is developing the Precision Grenadier System (PGS) to integrate counter-drone capabilities, replacing older grenade launchers. This initiative follows a recent drone incident and aims to enhance infantry squads' ability to neutralize UAS threats.
Key Takeaways
- The PGS will replace the M203 and M320 grenade launchers.
- The system focuses on counter-drone capabilities with a range of 500 meters.
- A solicitation for prototypes was released, with a deadline of May 11, 2026.
- The Army plans to award two OTAs for competing prototypes.
- The initiative addresses a gap in effective range and drone interception capabilities.
Why It Matters
The integration of counter-drone capabilities into the PGS reflects the growing threat of drones in military operations and the need for effective countermeasures. This development enhances the U.S. Army's ability to protect its assets and personnel from UAS threats, marking a strategic shift towards modernizing infantry weaponry.
US Army Grenadier System Integrates Counter-Drone Ammunition After Nearly Two Decades | ADrones
US Army Grenadier System Integrates Counter-Drone Ammunition After Nearly Two Decades
U.S. Army Develops New Grenadier System with Counter-Drone Capability
The U.S. Army is advancing its grenade launcher technology by integrating counter-drone capabilities into its new weapon system. This initiative marks a significant shift after nearly two decades of unsuccessful grenade launcher programs.
A solicitation released on April 6, 2026, invites defense contractors to submit prototypes for the Precision Grenadier System (PGS). This man-portable weapon is designed to replace the older M203 and M320 40mm grenade launchers, with a specific focus on neutralizing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) as a primary mission requirement.
The deadline for prototype submissions is set for May 11, 2026. This development follows a recent incident where a small FPV drone successfully struck a U.S. Army HH-60M Black Hawk helicopter in Baghdad, highlighting the growing threat posed by drones to military operations.
Details of the Precision Grenadier System
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The PGS solicitation outlines the Army’s request for 16 prototype weapons, fire control systems, and approximately 25,000 rounds of ammunition categorized into four types: counter-defilade, counter-drone, close quarters battle, and training rounds. The Army plans to award two Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) for competing prototypes, aiming for two PGS launchers per infantry squad.
The requirement for counter-drone capabilities is a new addition, reflecting the evolving battlefield dynamics where drones have become prevalent. The Army’s previous grenade launchers have a maximum effective range of 350 meters, while the new system aims for a range of 500 meters, addressing a gap that has existed for nearly two decades.
Historical Context and Previous Attempts
The Army’s previous attempt to address similar issues was the XM25 “Punisher”, which featured programmable airburst rounds intended to engage targets behind cover. However, the program was canceled in 2018 due to cost and performance concerns, leaving soldiers with the existing M320 and other heavier weaponry.
The current PGS solicitation is more focused than a previous 2020 Request for Information, which included broader requirements such as breaching rounds and armor-piercing capabilities. The current emphasis is on personnel targets, drone interception, and minimizing collateral damage, indicating a strategic shift towards practical and fieldable solutions.