Full Breakdown
Raytheon Unveils Rocket-Powered Coyote Block 2C+RM Interceptor
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Development and Test Milestones
Raytheon’s Coyote Block 2C+RM, a solid-rocket-motor variant of its counter-drone interceptor, moved from concept to flight testing in 15 months. The company completed three developmental flights on October 12 2026, confirming integration with existing ground-launch and control systems. Additional tests are scheduled into the first half of next year as the program moves toward a potential “program of record” with the U.S. Department of War.
Background & Context
The original Coyote Block 2 series, fielded by the Army, Air Force and Navy, uses a small turbojet after a launch-boost rocket. Raytheon reports the system has recorded more than 600 kills in operational deployments, establishing it as a combat-proven counter-UAS solution. The Army plans to acquire at least 6,000 Block 2 interceptors between FY 2025 and FY 2029, not yet including the rocket-powered version.
Technical Enhancements
The upgrade adds a new seeker and warhead to engage “cutting-edge drone capabilities” observed in adversary inventories. It remains compatible with existing four- and eight-cell launchers on ground vehicles, static sites, and Arleigh Burke-class destroyers such as USS Carl M. Levin.
Raytheon positions the interceptor to address U.S. “Group 3” drones—airframes weighing 56–1,320 lb, operating below 18,000 ft, and limited to 250 knots. Iranian State Media note newer jet-powered variants such as the Shahed 238 can reach roughly 270–320 knots, narrowing the gap between drones and cruise missiles.
Data & Statistics
- Development timeline: 15 months from concept to three flight tests.
- Test completion date: October 12 2026.
- Legacy Block 2 combat record: > 600 intercepted drones (Raytheon).
- U.S. “Group 3” drone parameters: 56–1,320 lb, <= 18,000 ft, <= 250 knots.
- Reported speed of Shahed 238: ~270–320 knots (Iranian State Media).
Why It Matters
By moving the Coyote interceptor closer to a conventional surface-to-air missile architecture, Raytheon aims to shorten engagement windows against high-speed, one-way attack drones that can be launched in swarms or mixed with ballistic and cruise missiles. The upgrade preserves the low-cost ethos of the Coyote family—roughly $100,000 per unit—while expanding its threat envelope.
What’s Next
Raytheon has announced further flight tests in the first half of next year and is seeking additional government sponsorship to transition the Block 2C+RM into an operational acquisition program. No formal purchase contracts have been disclosed, and the Army’s existing procurement plans for Block 2 interceptors do not yet encompass the rocket-powered variant.
Verbatim Quotes
- “With a common backbone, Raytheon can rapidly scale the Coyote family across counter-drone missions — so we're accelerating the pace of innovation,” — Tom Laliberty, President of Land & Air Defense Systems at Raytheon