US Army tests IBCS against drones and cruise missiles

The U.S. Army’s Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) has successfully demonstrated its advanced air defense capabilities by integrating with the emerging Indirect Fire Protection Capability (IFPC) system to detect, track, and neutralize multiple threats.

During a recent flight test at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, IBCS identified and engaged two surrogate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and a cruise missile, showcasing its ability to connect any sensor to any effector across the battlespace.

Northrop Grumman, the system’s developer, highlighted the test as a milestone in modernizing air and missile defense.

“With IBCS’ innovative, game-changing technology, the U.S. Army can test emerging systems like IFPC that will help modernize air and missile defense,” said Kenn Todorov, vice president and general manager of Global Battle Management and Readiness at Northrop Grumman. “IBCS’ ready-now capabilities connect any sensor and any effector across the battlespace, allowing the most effective weapon to take out the threat.”

The IBCS architecture unifies current and future systems, providing warfighters with a cohesive, actionable view of the battlespace. By fusing data from diverse sensors, IBCS gives military operators more time and improved decision-making tools to neutralize threats effectively. This system is a cornerstone of joint and coalition multi-domain operations.

IBCS has already been fielded in Poland and is scheduled for deployment in Guam as part of the U.S. Army’s air and missile defense modernization strategy. The system has demonstrated interoperability with an array of sensors and weapon systems, including the Patriot, Sentinel, F-35, Common Anti-Air Modular Missile, and the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor (LTAMDS).

This recent demonstration reinforces IBCS as a foundational element in the U.S. Army’s efforts to modernize air defense capabilities and address evolving global threats. With its network-enabled, modular, and scalable design, IBCS provides a versatile and robust solution for safeguarding critical assets and enhancing operational effectiveness.