// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
Next Generation Interceptor
The Next Generation Interceptor is an advanced missile being developed to replace the current system for defending the U.S. against long-range ballistic missile attacks. It is designed to be more capable and reliable at destroying enemy warheads in space, even when faced with complex countermeasures.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
The Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) is a kinetic kill weapon system developed by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) for the Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) to protect the U.S. homeland from intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). Designed to replace the aging Ground-Based Interceptor (GBI), NGI incorporates advanced sensors and potentially multiple kill vehicles to counter complex, evolving threats during the midcourse phase of flight.
BACKGROUND
The Ground-Based Interceptor (GBI) is the anti-ballistic missile component of the United States' Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system. It is designed to intercept intercontinental ballistic missiles.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- NGI
- GBI Replacement
- Future GBI
- Homeland Defense Interceptor
- GMD Interceptor Upgrade
- Multiple Kill Vehicle Interceptor
USAGE NOTE
NGI is often cited as the centerpiece of U.S. homeland missile defense modernization efforts against peer adversaries like China and Russia.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Next Generation Interceptor.
The prime contractor selected by the Missile Defense Agency in April 2024 to design, develop, and deliver the Next Generation Interceptor (NGI). The company leads the team responsible for the entire interceptor system.
Was a prime contractor competing for the NGI program until the final down-select in 2024. The company developed its own comprehensive NGI solution and remains a key developer of propulsion and other technologies for the broader U.S. missile defense system.
A research, development, and acquisition agency within the U.S. Department of Defense that is responsible for managing the NGI program. The MDA sets the requirements, oversees development, and will ultimately field the system.
A key subcontractor on the Lockheed Martin NGI team. Its Aerojet Rocketdyne sector provides the advanced solid rocket motor propulsion systems for the interceptor, which are critical for achieving the necessary velocity and range.
Was a principal partner on the Northrop Grumman NGI team, responsible for developing the kill vehicle. RTX is the developer of the Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle (EKV) for the current Ground-Based Interceptor, and continues to develop advanced sensor and interceptor technologies.
As the prime contractor for the existing Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system, Boeing develops and sustains the command and control, launch, and network infrastructure that the NGI will integrate into.
A partner on the Lockheed Martin NGI team, responsible for developing and supplying critical subsystems, including launch control and secure communications elements for the interceptor program.