Lockheed Martin’s new rocket for US Army doubles the range, hits harder

imeng.vip:03月-10日

Lockheed Martin has announced that its next-generation Extended-Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (ER GMLRS) missile was successfully tested again at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. This time, two rockets were fired from the US Army’s High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher against targets.

White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico is a 3,200 square-mile (8,288 km2) facility where the world’s first atomic bomb detonation took place. This test comes only months after a previous successful test of the ER GMLRS system at the same firing range in September 2023.

That test saw the ER GMLRS cover approximately 93 miles (150 kilometers), almost twice the range of the existing GMLRS.

The standard GMLRS is part of Lockheed Martin’s MLRS Family of Munitions (MFOM), a series of precision-strike rockets and missiles designed to be low-cost and low-risk. As Lockheed Martin explains, the rockets reduce collateral damage and “provide tremendous capability and flexibility in addressing today’s threats.”

GMLRS, specifically, is a precision-guided rocket that can deliver a high-explosive payload to targets with high accuracy. The ER GMLRS variant also has enhanced capabilities compared to the standard GMLRS.

ER GMLRS passes the test with flying colors
It can extend the range, improve precision, and offer better payload options to engage a wider range of targets. Enhanced capabilities include global position system (GPS) guidance and mission-customizable payloads.

The ER GMLRS includes a larger motor and has enhanced maneuverability compared to its tail-driven control systems. Possible warhead loadouts include unitary, high-explosive, anti-armor, and others tailored for specific target types or tactical objectives.

Modern land forces use this asset to strike targets beyond the reach of traditional artillery, minimizing collateral damage with guided munitions. Both legacy and extended-range rockets are launched from HIMARS systems, and mobile platforms called the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), like the M270. Both of these can carry and fire multiple rockets.

“HIMARS and M270 are critical solutions needed by global partners,” explains Lockheed Martin. The most recent test-fired ER GMLRS rockets achieved flight trajectory, range, and accuracy from launch to impact. The rockets successfully targeted and engaged a set of targets that met the required criteria for missile performance.

Now closer to production
“The Army’s success in this operational test further demonstrates the readiness of ER GMLRS and overall capability of our family of munitions,” said Jay Price, vice president for Precision Fires at Lockheed Martin.

“Our capabilities provide range options, affordability and of course the continued precision of this enhanced system,” Price added.

Lockheed Martin also reported that it manufactured over 70,000 GMLRS rounds to date. This is part of an ongoing contract to produce GMLRS unitary and alternative-warhead rockets. It also provides integrated logistics support for the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, and international customers.

Lockheed Martin reports that this latest test brings ER GMLRS closer to fielding and production. The rockets are being developed and built at Lockheed Martin’s Precision Fires Center of Excellence in Camden.