The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has officially announced a new ambitious initiative called „Ground-Based Affordable Mass” (G-BAM). The project aims to develop long-range precision strike systems that can be demonstrated in just three months and be ready for mass production within 12 to 18 months. This move is part of a broader strategy to equip the armed forces with low-cost autonomous capabilities capable of being deployed at scale.
High performance at low cost: Technical objectives of the new program
The criteria set for this project are extremely rigorous, emphasizing cost efficiency and industrial production capacity. Authorities are looking for ground-launched systems capable of striking targets at distances exceeding 600 nautical miles. The cost per unit must not exceed $250,000, and selected companies must demonstrate the ability to produce over 100 units monthly.
In addition to range and price requirements, the systems must be equipped with advanced technologies such as automatic target recognition, autonomy-enabled terminal guidance, and alternative position, navigation, and timing (PNT) systems. These features will ensure the systems’ operational effectiveness even in environments where GPS signals are jammed or unavailable.
Strategic investments: A 250 million dollar budget for rapid innovation
The Pentagon intends to allocate $250 million for evaluating options and securing initial contracts. Interested companies are invited to submit white papers, and those selected will receive $250,000 to participate in a flight demonstration scheduled for November. Subsequently, top performers could receive $5 million in funding to „immediately deliver” operational test quantities to units.
This initiative coincides with the Pentagon’s internal restructuring, which places an increasing emphasis on the integration of autonomous and unmanned systems. The success of the G-BAM program could pave the way for massive production contracts, offering small and medium-sized companies the opportunity to become key players in the security architecture of the future.
