Arnold Defense

U.S.-based iRocket announced the successful completion of a test flight of its iRX-100 missile integrated with a launcher supplied by Arnold Defense, confirming the system’s compatibility and operational performance. The company said the missile reached Mach 2 and traveled approximately six kilometers during the demonstration, validating its use with Arnold Defense’s launcher platform. According to a statement from iRocket, the demonstration focused on validating the integration of the iRX-100 missile with the launcher system manufactured by Arnold Defense. The flight test confirmed that the missile could be deployed from the launcher and operate within expected performance parameters. During the demonstration, the iRX-100 missile accelerated to approximately Mach 2 and reached a range of roughly six kilometers. The company said the results confirmed that the missile is now qualified for use with Arnold Defense’s launcher system. iRocket stated that the test supports its broader effort to deliver a scalable counter-unmanned aerial system capability designed to integrate with existing launch platforms. The approach aims to allow armed forces to deploy new missile capabilities without replacing established launcher infrastructure. “Today’s successful iRX-100 demonstration with Arnold Defense’s launcher proves we can deliver a modern, scalable counter-UAS effect with speed and repeatability,” said Asad Malik, chief executive officer of iRocket. “We’re rebuilding the arsenal of freedom by combining high-rate manufacturing, robotics-driven quality, and a partner ecosystem that can surge production when the mission demands it.” The iRX-100 program focuses on developing a missile compatible with launch systems already in service with military users. By maintaining compatibility with widely deployed launchers, the company says the system can be introduced more rapidly than new platforms that require dedicated infrastructure. Arnold Defense manufactures launchers designed for the 2.75-inch, or 70-millimeter, rocket system used by a range of aircraft and ground platforms. These launchers are widely used by the U.S. military and allied forces, making them a common component in existing weapons inventories. (iRocket pic) According to Arnold Defense and Electronics, the collaboration with iRocket centers on extending the capability of the 70-millimeter rocket system through improved missile technology. “As the preeminent 2.75in. rocket launcher manufacturer in the world, we are excited to be working with iRocket as they bring needed improved capability to the 2.75in./70mm rocket,” said Frank Ferrante, vice president of programs and business development at Arnold Defense and Electronics. “The speed at which they moved to get to this round of testing has been impressive to watch first hand and participate in, and we look forward to continued collaboration efforts between our companies.” The iRX-100 missile is intended to provide extended-range capability within the 70-millimeter rocket category. According to company officials, the development effort aims to improve engagement distance and operational flexibility for systems based on this widely used caliber. Chris Mignano, vice president of business development and manufacturing at iRocket, said the development effort focuses on maintaining compatibility with launchers already used by military forces. “Advancing extended-range capability for the 70mm system is about delivering greater reach and effectiveness to the warfighter,” Mignano said. “By working closely with our partners and focusing on compatibility with launchers already used by the services, we’ve been able to move quickly and accelerate meaningful capability to the field.” Beyond the technical testing milestone, iRocket says it is expanding its manufacturing approach to support high-rate missile production. The company said it is incorporating robotics-based manufacturing processes aimed at improving production consistency and throughput. iRocket has also secured a position on the Missile Defense Agency’s Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense, or SHIELD, contract vehicle. The 10-year indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity program has a potential value of up to $151 billion and supports research, engineering, and procurement related to homeland missile defense technologies. The company said participation in the SHIELD contract framework allows it to compete for future projects involving missile systems and interceptor technologies used in homeland defense programs. Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, who serves on iRocket’s board of directors, said the demand for small missile interceptors is increasing. “Every day, we and our allies are using up their inventories of small missiles to intercept drones at one-tenth the cost of Patriot missiles,” Ross said. “iRocket’s recent launch successes prove its qualifications to meet the demand.” Ross is also involved in the company’s strategic expansion as iRocket prepares for a public listing planned for 2026. According to the company, he has helped establish international partnerships, including a $640 million agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Spacebelt.

Arnold Defense

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Arnold Defense

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