Army Awarded Mountain Horse Solutions Second Contract
The Sarasota-based company will deliver FD-1 interceptors designed to combat small unmanned aircraft systems.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Military
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The U.S. Army has awarded Mountain Horse Solutions a second contract for its FD-1 interceptor system. The technology is specifically designed to neutralize Group 1-3+ drones and ground targets.
Why it matters
The system was created to provide a cost-effective alternative to using expensive interceptors against inexpensive drone threats. By utilizing Other Transaction Agreements, the military can rapidly procure updated versions of the technology.
The FD-1 system requires a single operator and can be fully set up and airborne in under two minutes. Mountain Horse Solutions utilizes soldier feedback to implement system upgrades within five weeks.
The players
Mountain Horse Solutions
This Sarasota-based defense firm specializes in advanced unmanned interceptor technology.
U.S. Army
The branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for land-based military operations.
Army Test and Evaluation Command
This agency is responsible for the technical assessment and vetting of new military equipment.
409th Contracting Support Brigade
This unit provides specialized contracting expertise and acquisition support for Army initiatives.
The details
The 409th Contracting Support Brigade facilitated the contract for the FD-1, which previously secured first prize in the U.S. Army xTech Counter Strike competition. The Army Test and Evaluation Command has completed a technical review of the platform, which is now slated for scaled production to support allied and partner nations.
Timeline
November 2025: FD-1 took first prize in xTech Counter Strike competition.
Spring 2026: Initial G-TEAD OTA was awarded.
October 12, 2026: Second contract award issued.
Political Context
Critics of the military's reliance on Other Transaction Agreements argue that these non-traditional procurement vehicles bypass rigorous oversight required for large-scale federal acquisitions. Proponents maintain these agreements are essential for maintaining a competitive edge against rapidly evolving threats.
The expansion of this contract reflects a shift in federal military spending toward locally developed technology in the Sarasota area. This partnership may influence future regional labor demand for specialized engineering and defense manufacturing roles.
The takeaway
The deployment of the FD-1 highlights how modern defense procurement is increasingly prioritizing speed and operational feedback over traditional multi-year development cycles. Readers should note that this shift aims to lower costs while increasing the agility of tactical responses to emerging drone threats.
Further reading
For more on local defense developments, visit the Military section.
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Do you believe the U.S. government should increase spending on new military drone defense technology?
