Northrop Grumman has announced the development of a new Cannon-Based Air Defense (CBAD) system designed to counter the growing threat of large-scale aerial raids involving cruise missiles and unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
The company detailed the capabilities of CBAD in a recent post on X.
“We are developing Cannon-Based Air Defense (CBAD), which employs Bushmaster Chain Guns with advanced ammunition, to affordably defeat a growing threat: large aerial raids of cruise missiles and unmanned aerial systems,” Northrop Grumman stated.
As noted by the company, adversaries are increasingly focusing on enhancing the quantity, variety, and capability of their aerial weapons. Future conflicts are expected to feature larger raid sizes targeting previously secure bases and critical infrastructure. CBAD systems provide a scalable, cost-effective, and resilient terminal defense against these mass air threats.
We are developing Cannon-Based Air Defense (CBAD), which employs Bushmaster Chain Guns with advanced ammunition, to affordably defeat a growing threat: large aerial raids of cruise missiles and unmanned aerial systems. https://t.co/bQhgdxnqZr#SMDSymposium #DefiningPossible pic.twitter.com/SBvfRHUiRR
— Northrop Grumman (@northropgrumman) August 6, 2024
CBAD integrates sensors, battle management command and control, and effectors, leveraging battle-proven cannons and a suite of advanced ammunition. This system is designed to defend against subsonic cruise missiles and UAS from the onset of conflict through to its conclusion.
Traditional long-range interceptor missiles have become less cost-effective as adversaries deploy low-cost, expendable technologies in large quantities. In contrast, CBAD offers an affordable, layered terminal defense with a scalable manufacturing base and simplified logistics.
Northrop Grumman emphasized the strategic advantages of CBAD, stating, “With CBAD, this advanced weapons system will help warfighters win tonight, and every tomorrow through intelligent weapons ready to deliver in their favor.”