Army to Add Three Patriot Battalions, New Guam Defense Unit with 360-Degree Radar

The U.S. Army is set to enhance its air-and-missile defense capabilities, confirming plans to increase the number of operational Patriot battalions from 15 to 18. Additionally, a new composite battalion will be explicitly established for Guam, as reported by an Army spokesperson to Defense News.

In a significant development, the Army had earlier disclosed plans for the establishment of a 16th battalion in 2023. However, Vice Chief of Staff Gen. James Mingus has now indicated that the force is set to expand further, with the addition of “up to four” more battalions. This move comes as the military grapples with the demands of global deployments, highlighting the challenges faced by an increasingly stretched system.

In addition to this expansion, the Army is set to create a specialized battalion as part of the Guam Defense System. The upcoming unit will bring together the Integrated Fire Protection Capability (IFPC), the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), and the advanced Lower-Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor (LTAMDS), a cutting-edge radar set to replace the older Patriot radars.

The Army has clarified that the newly established battalion, designed explicitly for Guam’s defense, will not be included in the count of the 18 standard Patriot battalions.

The IFPC system is designed to protect fixed or semi-fixed locations against a wide range of threats, including cruise missiles, drones, and artillery. IBCS is set to function as the digital backbone, connecting a range of sensors and interceptors to ensure a cohesive and swift response. In a significant advancement, LTAMDS provides comprehensive 360-degree radar coverage, enhancing capabilities in missile detection and engagement.

“The LTAMDS and IBCS systems significantly enhance the range and coverage of the Patriot system,” stated Gen. Mingus during a recent event organized by the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “When put into action, it significantly enhances the effectiveness of our current force.”

The Patriot system continues to see strong demand. Ukraine remains dependent on the system to defend against Russian missile strikes, and it has recently demonstrated its effectiveness by intercepting Iranian missiles close to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. From this point onward, every new U.S. Patriot unit will be outfitted with LTAMDS and IBCS.

The Army is taking significant steps to modernize and expand its missile defense capabilities, thereby boosting flexibility, strengthening global deterrence, and enhancing its response to the evolving threat environment.