FY2024 Budget Request for LongShot

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is procuring from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems under the FY2024 budget request of USD 44 million for Phase 3 of the LongShot program, which involves building flight-test vehicles of an air-launched uncrewed aircraft, integrating them onto fighter and bomber host aircraft, and conducting initial flight demonstrations to validate air-to-air missile separation. The purpose is to develop a UAV deployable from standoff ranges to engage multiple adversary targets using existing air-to-air missiles, thereby extending engagement ranges, enhancing mission effectiveness, and reducing risks to manned aircraft. Strategically, LongShot supports DARPA's renewed focus on X-plane demonstrations amid increased FY2024 funding for advanced uncrewed systems to modernize U.S. military capabilities.