The United States Navy has announced plans to modify an existing contract with MSI Defense Solutions, LLC, for the Electronic Advanced Ground Launcher System (EAGLS), a counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS). According to a notice published on SAM.gov, the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) intends to issue a sole-source contract modification to MSI Defense, citing the company’s unique position as the sole designer, developer, manufacturer, and integrator of the EAGLS system. This exclusive contract modification ensures that the system meets the Navy’s operational requirements efficiently and cost-effectively. The contract modification includes extensive support for the EAGLS C-UAS, covering testing, initial spares, support equipment, engineering and technical assistance, maintenance, and Field Service Representative (FSR) system support.
In August 2024, MSI Defense successfully delivered six EAGLS C-UAS systems to the U.S. Army under a contract awarded through the Rapid Acquisition Authority (RAA). This marked a significant milestone, as MSI Defense developed the first 70mm-centric Counter-UAS system procured by the U.S. Department of Defense for the U.S. Army. The EAGLS system was specifically designed to support forward-deployed forces facing persistent and evolving UAS threats, providing them with an advanced and highly adaptable defense solution. The EAGLS system integrates a remote weapon station, Leonardo’s RPS-40 Multi-Mission Hemispheric radar, and a sensor turret equipped with electro-optical and infrared cameras.
The weapon station features a 70mm rocket launcher capable of deploying laser-guided rockets such as the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) II, which has a range of 10 kilometers (6 miles), matching the detection range of the RPS-40 radar. The APKWS provides a cost-effective precision-guided munition (PGM) solution by converting Hydra 70 unguided rockets into laser-guided weapons. Compared to existing laser-guided munitions, the APKWS is one-third the cost, one-third the weight, and requires only a quarter of the time to load and unload. This system effectively bridges the gap between the Hydra 70 and AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, offering a lower-yield, precision-targeting solution designed to minimize collateral damage.
As the global UAS threat continues to grow in both scale and complexity, the demand for agile, mobile, and effective countermeasures has increased. The EAGLS Counter-UAS system stands out as a highly adaptable and cost-effective solution that can be deployed in a variety of environments. Available in both mobile and palletized configurations, it enhances force protection while providing a flexible defense system against emerging aerial threats. With this contract modification, MSI Defense Solutions further solidifies its position as a key provider of cutting-edge counter-drone capabilities for the U.S. military.
