DoD to Demonstrate Ground-Launched Precision-Strike System in November 2026
The U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is pursuing a flight demonstration of a ground-launched, long-range precision-strike system through its Ground-Based Affordable Mass (G-BAM) program. According to the DIU, the Phase 2 flight demonstration is scheduled for early November 2026 at a government-designated test site.
The program is focused on identifying weapon systems that can be operated at scale for less than existing long-range precision-fire systems, while assessing how quickly they can transition to full-scale production.
G-BAM Schedule and Funding
Companies seeking to participate in G-BAM must submit a proposal or white paper outlining their concept of operations, technology readiness and plans for scaling production of a ground-launched, long-range precision-strike system. The deadline for Phase 1 submissions is Aug. 5, 2026.
Selected companies will be invited to take part in the Phase 2 flight demonstration in early November 2026. Participating companies may receive initial awards of up to $250,000, while systems that perform well in the evaluation may be eligible for up to an additional $5 million.
The government has allocated up to $250 million for the program’s awards and follow-on transition activities. That figure is not the purchase price of a single weapon system; it is the program ceiling covering competitive demonstrations and subsequent prototype and production-transition efforts.
Ground-Launched Precision-Strike Capabilities Sought by the U.S.
According to the DIU’s solicitation, the U.S. government will give priority to ground-launched systems with a range of at least 600 nautical miles. A minimum payload capacity of 35 pounds is required, while payload capacities exceeding 100 pounds are preferred.
Cost is another central evaluation criterion. Assuming mass production, the target flight cost per round is less than $250,000, while the cost per effect—which accounts for system reliability and mission success—is targeted at less than $500,000.
Production capacity and operating conditions will also be assessed. Companies must either be capable of producing at least 100 systems per month or present a plan to scale up to that level within a short period.
Autonomy and Electronic-Warfare Resilience
G-BAM favors systems with autonomous capabilities and network survivability rather than simple long-range launch vehicles. Key requirements include automatic target recognition, autonomous terminal-phase guidance and alternative navigation technologies for use in environments constrained by electronic warfare.
The evaluation will also consider the ability to retarget after launch—either autonomously or at an operator’s direction—as well as integration with existing target-acquisition and command-and-control systems. Mission performance under limited bandwidth and communications constraints will also be examined.
Accelerating Fielding Through Autonomous-Warfare Organizations
The DIU is linking G-BAM to its autonomous-warfare portfolio and missions to integrate uncrewed systems. The U.S. government is seeking to shorten development timelines by leveraging mature commercial technologies and to move quickly from demonstrations to production and unit-level evaluations.
According to the DIU solicitation, companies that pass the demonstration may gain access to a range of acquisition pathways, including follow-on prototype agreements, production contracts and the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. Participation in the demonstration, however, does not guarantee a follow-on contract or mass production.
Potential Impact on the Defense Industry and Long-Range Precision Fires
If G-BAM proceeds as planned, the U.S. long-range precision-fires portfolio could move beyond its emphasis on expensive, low-volume systems by adding more affordable and scalable capabilities.
In particular, the low unit-cost target and goal of producing more than 100 systems per month could create new opportunities for companies with expertise in launch-vehicle manufacturing, guidance and navigation, electronic-warfare software and command-and-control integration.
At the same time, companies will face the challenge of achieving long-range flight, precision guidance, survivability in electronic-warfare environments and consistent quality in mass production at the same time. The November 2026 demonstration is expected to be the first step in validating these requirements under real flight conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the U.S. ground-launched precision-strike weapon demonstration take place?
According to the DIU solicitation, the Phase 2 flight demonstration is scheduled for early November 2026 at a government-designated test site.
What is the total budget for the G-BAM program?
The government has allocated up to $250 million for awards and follow-on transition activities. This should be distinguished from the purchase price of a single weapon system.
What support is available to companies participating in the demonstration?
Companies taking part in the Phase 2 flight demonstration may receive initial awards of up to $250,000. Top-performing companies may receive up to $5 million to provide systems for operational testing.
What range is sought for the ground-launched systems?
The DIU has identified a range of at least 600 nautical miles as a priority. Systems with a minimum payload capacity of 35 pounds will be considered, while capacities exceeding 100 pounds are preferred.
How does G-BAM differ from existing missile programs?
G-BAM is not a single-weapon procurement program designed to select one specific model. Instead, it is a competitive effort to evaluate multiple ground-launched precision-strike systems that offer lower costs and a rapid path to scaled production.
