The US is burning through expensive missiles. DARPA is looking for cheaper ones that can be built in days, not months.

US soldiers from the 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade conduct a Patriot missile live-fire exercise near Fort Bliss, Texas, Aug. 23, 2025. Sgt. JaDarius Duncan/US Army The US is burning through costly missiles fighting Iran faster than it can replace them. DARPA wants cheaper weapons that can be built in days — or even hours. The push reflects growing fears that the US lacks munitions for a prolonged war. The US military's research arm is looking for missiles that can be built in a matter ...