The U.S. Army plans to field two Rafael-built Iron Dome air-defense weapon systems at Fort Bliss, Texas, by the end of 2020, Breaking Defense reported Friday. The Army designated Iron Dome as Interim Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 and intends to use the battery to defend against cruise missiles.
The first Iron Dome battery powers the Theater High-Altitude Air Defense weapon system, which works to defeat long-range aircraft and missiles. The second battery is slated for construction under the Air Defense Artillery School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.
Bruce Jette, assistant secretary of the Army for acquisition, logistics and technology and a 2020 Wash100 Award recipient, told Breaking Defense that the service is encouraging Rafael to supply Tamir short-range missiles for an exercise next year to test battery ammunition for IFPC Increment 2.
The Israel-based company intends to work with Raytheon Technologies in an effort to expand the former's U.S. footprint, according to the report.