Pentagon launches low-cost long-range precision strike weapon challenge

Published Jul 27, 06:55 PM UTC

The Pentagon, through the Defense Innovation Unit, has launched the Ground-Based Affordable Mass (GBAM) Challenge to develop low-cost long-range precision strike weapons. Citing the Iran war as exposing the problem of relying on expensive missiles like Tomahawks, the Pentagon wants weapons costing less than $250,000 each, with a flight demonstration within 60-90 days and full-scale production within 12-18 months. The weapons must have a range of at least 600 nautical miles, a payload of 35-100 pounds, autonomous terminal guidance, and function in GPS-denied environments. Winning teams receive $250,000 cash prizes, with top contenders eligible for up to $5 million for operational test quantities. The government has budgeted up to $250 million for the program. The initiative aims to supplement expensive smart munitions with affordable, scalable long-range effects to sustain operational tempo in prolonged conflicts.