During the test, the missile reached speeds of Mach 2 and traveled approximately six kilometers. The successful demonstration qualifies the iRX-100 for use with Arnold Defense’s launcher platform.
The test forms part of iRocket’s effort to develop a scalable counter-unmanned aerial system capability compatible with existing launch systems. The program is designed to support urgent defense requirements while enabling large-scale manufacturing of missile systems.
According to the company, the initiative focuses on industrializing missile and propulsion manufacturing capacity in the United States. This includes the use of robotics-driven production processes intended to ensure repeatability, traceability and high production throughput.
Asad Malik, Chief Executive Officer of iRocket, said the demonstration highlights the company’s approach to delivering modern counter-drone capabilities. “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.”
Malik also emphasized the role of advanced manufacturing methods in expanding production capacity. “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 collaboration with Arnold Defense reflects a broader effort to combine established defense systems with modern production techniques. According to the companies, this approach aims to ensure that systems can be deployed effectively while also meeting large-scale demand.
iRocket has also strengthened its strategic position within the defense sector through partnerships and program participation. The company has secured a place on the Missile Defense Agency’s Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense (SHIELD) contract vehicle.
The SHIELD program is a ten-year indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract valued at up to $151 billion. It enables rapid procurement of technologies and engineering capabilities supporting U.S. homeland missile defense, including interceptor and missile systems.
Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, who serves on iRocket’s board of directors, highlighted the growing demand for counter-drone interceptors. “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 added that recent testing demonstrates the company’s readiness to help meet this demand. “iRocket’s recent launch successes prove its qualifications to meet the demand.”
Chris Mignano, Vice President of Business Development and Manufacturing at iRocket, said the program aims to extend the capabilities of existing rocket systems. “Advancing extended-range capability for the 70mm system is about delivering greater reach and effectiveness to the warfighter.”
He also emphasized the importance of working with established platforms already used by the armed forces. “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.”
Mignano added that collaboration across the defense industry will be essential to future security. “This kind of collaboration across the defense industrial base is what will ultimately make the difference for the future of our nation’s security.”
Arnold Defense also welcomed the results of the integration test. The company manufactures launch systems for the widely used 2.75-inch rocket family.
Frank Ferrante, Vice President of Programs and Business Development at Arnold Defense and Electronics, said the collaboration has progressed rapidly. “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.”
Ferrante added that the speed of development has been notable during the testing phase. “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.”
