Lockheed Martin announced that it has successfully conducted the first flight test of its Next-Generation Short-Range Interceptor (NGSRI), a potential replacement for the US Army’s Stinger missile system.
The test took place at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico on January 13, 2026, validating the interceptor’s performance and marking progress in the development of key subsystem components, according to the defense contractor.
The NGSRI program aims to deliver an advanced air defense capability designed to counter unmanned aerial systems, rotary-wing aircraft, and fixed-wing threats. According to Lockheed Martin, the system more than doubles the capability of the legacy Stinger in many scenarios.
.@LockheedMartin's Next-Generation Short-Range Interceptor successfully completed its first flight test, demonstrating exceptional performance and positioning the @USArmy for 21st Century Security® success.
— Lockheed Martin News (@LMNews) January 13, 2026
Rapid development timeline
Lockheed Martin has advanced the missile from initial concept to flight testing in just 26 months since receiving the contract award in 2023.
“Our team’s shared mission, innovative approach and agility were essential to achieving this milestone,” said Randy Crites, Vice President of Lockheed Martin Advanced Programs. “Lockheed Martin is driving the future of integrated air and missile defense, advancing technologies that safeguard our warfighters and allies from evolving threats.”
Chris Murphy, Business Development Lead for Lockheed Martin Advanced Programs, emphasized the program’s expedited timeline.
“The successful completion of this first flight test is a testament to our team’s agility and drive to deliver critical capabilities on an accelerated timeline,” Murphy said. “We completed our controlled flight test series in less than six months, demonstrating the speed and agility the Lockheed Martin team brings to this exciting competition.”
System design and capabilities
The NGSRI is being developed using a modern open systems architecture with system modularity, allowing for continuous evolution and upgrades, according to the company. The interceptor incorporates advanced technologies including artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Lockheed Martin stated that the system is designed to meet soldier safety and performance requirements while remaining highly effective against current and emerging aerial threats.
Murphy added that the company is committed to rapid delivery of capable, manufacturable, and affordable systems that address the Army’s current needs.
“Our team has a proven track record of delivering innovative solutions that protect people, infrastructure and nations around the world,” he said.
The successful first flight test positions the NGSRI program for additional testing as the US Army evaluates next-generation short-range air defense capabilities. The program leverages Lockheed Martin’s experience in air and missile defense systems as the company competes to replace the decades-old Stinger platform.