Developed under the U.S. Army’s High-Speed Maneuverable Missile (HSMM) program, the Barracuda-100M attracted attention with a successful new round of flight tests completed in May 2025. These tests confirmed the missile’s high-speed performance and extreme maneuvering capabilities, marking a key step toward developing cost-effective and scalable precision strike systems.
Designed by Anduril, this compact cruise missile features an advanced targeting system known as the Precision Target Acquisition Seeker (PTAS). PTAS uses a Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR) camera to enable passive and autonomous tracking of targets. The system is integrated with Anduril’s mission-focused artificial intelligence software, Lattice, which dynamically adapts to mission parameters.
As part of the Barracuda family, the 100M model stands out with its range exceeding 120 nautical miles. With a payload capacity of around 40 pounds (approximately 18 kg), the missile can carry kinetic warheads or other mission-specific payloads. Its ability to launch from air, land, and sea platforms provides flexibility for a wide range of operational scenarios. Thanks to its open modular architecture, it allows for rapid integration of commercial technologies and continuous performance improvements through software-defined updates.
Since 2023, Anduril has worked closely with the U.S. Army’s DEVCOM Aviation and Missile Center. From the design phase through 2024, a comprehensive series of tests was conducted, including wind tunnel trials, environmental evaluations, captive carriage flights, glide tests, and engine tests. The powered flight tests completed in May 2025 led to further advancements, such as the integration of a low-cost navigation system, an independent mission computer, and design optimizations geared toward mass production. The Barracuda-100M met all mission objectives, demonstrating autonomous launch, execution of complex missions, and precision terminal strike capabilities, while performing high-G maneuvers at speeds exceeding 500 knots.
Comparable in size and production cost to the Hellfire missile, the Barracuda-100M offers a tenfold increase in range—providing a major tactical advantage. Its compatibility with air, land, and sea platforms makes it an effective solution for multidomain operations. Ground-launched testing scheduled for late 2025 will assess its deployability for mobile ground forces. The program is expected to conclude in 2026 with a live-fire demonstration at a U.S. government test site.
The Barracuda-100M plays a vital role in the U.S. Army’s strategy to modernize its warfare capabilities. With its extended range, autonomy, and modular adaptability, it emerges as a powerful and versatile precision strike solution for next-generation combat scenarios.
