Cheaper Patriot partners: U.S. Army names 30 finalists

The U.S. Army has selected 30 finalists for the xTech Apex Intercept competition to identify lower-cost air-defence interceptors that can operate alongside Patriot. Each team receives $25,000 and will demonstrate its design between October 1 and November 30 against threats including aircraft, drones, cruise missiles and close- or short-range ballistic missiles. Up to 18 winners are expected by December 31 for potential follow-on opportunities. The Army has not set a public unit-price target, and finalist status does not constitute a procurement contract or guarantee that any system will enter service.