Summary:
Anduril introduces the Barracuda missile series for low-cost, mass production.
The missile family includes Barracuda-100, Barracuda-250, and Barracuda-500 with ranges from 85 to 500 nautical miles.
Production time reduced by 50%, with 95% fewer tools needed, enhancing affordability.
Addressing potential ammunition shortages in conflicts with China and Russia.
Selected for the US Air Force's Enterprise Test Vehicle program to showcase affordable missile solutions.
Defense tech startup Anduril has unveiled its new Barracuda cruise missile series, designed for mass production at a low cost to strengthen the US military's capabilities in potential near-peer conflicts.
Key Features of the Barracuda Missile
The Barracuda missile family includes three variants: Barracuda-100, Barracuda-250, and Barracuda-500.
- The Barracuda-100 can carry a 35-pound payload over 85 nautical miles when air-launched.
- The Barracuda-500 has a larger capacity, carrying 100 pounds over a range of 500 nautical miles.
Anduril emphasizes that the Barracuda can be produced 50% faster and requires 95% fewer tools and 50% fewer parts, making it significantly cheaper to manufacture. This innovation allows the US to "bring mass to the fight".
Addressing the Ammunition Crisis
In light of concerns over the US's ammunition sustainability in potential conflicts with powers like China or Russia, the Barracuda missiles are positioned as a solution. Wargames have indicated that the Pentagon could run out of advanced munitions within weeks or even days.
Anduril's animated video announcement stressed the urgent need for more missiles, stating, "We need an order of magnitude more missiles — and we need them to be simple and affordable enough to produce at scale to meet both peacetime and wartime demands."
Strategic Partnerships and Future Plans
In June, the US Air Force selected Anduril as part of its Enterprise Test Vehicle program, highlighting the startup's commitment to producing affordable high-rate missile systems.
Anduril's focus on hyperscale production aims to address the deficiencies in the current defense arsenal, with the Barracuda designed to launch in waves or alongside other weapon types.
Founded by Palmer Luckey, Anduril recently raised $1.5 billion to establish a Tesla-style mega factory for rapid missile production, emphasizing that "America and our allies don't have enough stuff." The Barracuda's manufacturing process is streamlined, allowing for quick expansion with minimal tools required for assembly.
Anduril is set to revolutionize military capabilities with its affordable, modular missile technology designed to meet future demands.
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