LongShot Phase 2 Contract

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) awarded General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems a $94 million contract for Phase 2 of the LongShot program to develop detailed designs and conduct ground tests for an air-launched unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capable of firing air-to-air weapons. This phase follows a successful preliminary design review and positions the UAV to enable manned aircraft to deploy it at standoff ranges, reducing risk by allowing the drone to neutralize airborne threats independently. The program strategically aims to transform air combat by extending engagement ranges, with potential transitions to Navy and Air Force acquisition and links to collaborative combat aircraft initiatives.