HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The U.S. Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office is establishing the Guam Defense Systems Joint Project Executive Office, managed by Lt. Gen. Robert Rasch, to implement the Pentagon’s air and missile defense architecture vision for Guam. The office will include members from all services, and fiscal 2024 funds are being realigned to kick-start operations.
The Army is leading the acquisition and execution plan for the Guam architecture. The new office will focus on integrating technology to create a joint air and missile defense capability to protect Guam against potential threats, especially from China.
The Army requested $638 million for FY24 for Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensors, Patriot air defense systems, Mid-Range Capability missile launchers, and other equipment. Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Battle Command System will connect sensors and shooters on the battlefield.
The Navy will contribute technology from its Aegis weapon system to the Guam defense effort. Funding requests for FY24 cover the installation of AN/TPY-6 radars along the island’s periphery. Success in Guam could solidify the Army’s air and missile defense role in the region, with the first wave of defenses including radars, launchers, interceptors, and a command-and-control system.
