The United States (US) Army has taken an important step to strengthen its capacity to counter growing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) threats. The Army has awarded Raytheon a massive contract worth nearly $5 billion ( $5,039,629,681 to be exact) to procure the Coyote anti-drone system. The contract package includes fixed and mobile missile launchers, Ku-band radars and various interceptors that will expand the operational scope of the system. The estimated completion date of the contract is September 28, 2033.
Coyote: Proven Anti-Drone Capability
Raytheon’s Coyote anti-drone system is a combat-proven C-UAS solution designed specifically to counter small and medium-sized UAVs. Initially developed for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, the system’s main role today has shifted to destroying enemy UAVs.
- Launch and Mobility: Coyote offers the flexibility to be launched from land, air or ship.
- Improved Block Structure: Developing the system in blocks allows it to adapt to different operational requirements. For example, the Block 2 version features a rocket-assisted launch and a jet engine to reach speeds of around 555-600 km/h. In this way, Block 2 achieves a high success rate against targets with its high maneuverability.
Cost Effective Defense and Global Use
Coyote integrates with Raytheon’s KuRFS radar system to create a low-cost but effective layer of air defense. Its much lower cost than conventional missile defense systems and its ability to remain airborne and redirect makes Coyote a valuable tool against the dynamic threats of the modern battlefield.
Coyote systems are actively used by the US Army. In fact, an additional 600 Coyotes were ordered in January 2024 following attacks on US forces in the Middle East. In addition, Raytheon started local production of the system in April 2025 in partnership with the UAE.
