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TechUS Marines Field Medium Range Intercept Capability Based on Iron Dome
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The U.S. Marine Corps is actively fielding the Medium Range Intercept Capability (MRIC), a mobile air defense system derived from Israel's Iron Dome. The system integrates U.S. AN/TPS-80 G/ATOR radar and Common Aviation Command and Control System with Israeli technology, using the SkyHunter missile (U.S. version of the Tamir interceptor) to engage cruise missiles and drones at ranges of 4 to 70 kilometers. Trailer-mounted launchers carry up to 20 missiles each. In June, III Marine Expeditionary Force tested MRIC on Guam during exercise Valiant Shield 2026. Following a $1.25 billion joint project, production of interceptors is underway in Arkansas. The Marine Corps has requested $233.6 million for the program and plans to fully field three operational battalions between 2026 and 2028.
Source report
The U.S. Marine Corps is advancing its Medium-Range Intercept Capability (MRIC) system, a mobile air defense solution designed to counter complex aerial threats including cruise missiles and drones.
System Overview
The MRIC system integrates U.S. radars and command-and-control systems with Israeli technology. Key components include:
- SkyHunter missile: The U.S. version of the combat-proven Israeli Tamir interceptor missile
- Engagement range: 4 to 70 kilometers
- Launcher configuration: Mobile, trailer-mounted launchers developed specifically for the U.S. Marine Corps
- Capacity: Each launcher can carry up to 20 interceptor missiles
Integrated Systems
The MRIC incorporates the Marine Corps' own:
- AN/TPS-80 Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR)
- Common Aviation Command and Control System
Deployment Timeline
The U.S. Marine Corps plans to fully field the MRIC system with three operational battalions between 2026 and 2028.
Recent Testing
In June, units of the III Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF) tested and deployed the MRIC system on Guam as part of the large-scale joint military exercise Valiant Shield 2026.
Production and Funding
- A specialized manufacturing facility in Arkansas is currently producing Tamir and SkyHunter interceptor missiles, following a $1.25 billion joint project
- The U.S. Marine Corps has requested $233.6 million for the MRIC program
Source
CPM Defence Network – News: Verteidigung und WehrtechnikWestern
Part of this Story
U.S. Marines Deploy Iron Dome-Based MRIC Air Defense System on Guam