Lockheed Martin's Long-Range Rocket Hits The Mark: Successful Test Doubles HIMARS' Reach

Lockheed Martin has taken a significant step forward in extending the reach of battlefield artillery with the successful test firing of its next-generation Extended Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (ER GMLRS). This test, conducted in collaboration with the U.S. Army at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, marks a major milestone for the program.

The ER GMLRS successfully launched from a HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) launcher, achieving its intended flight trajectory and demonstrating its extended range capability. "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.

The key feature of the ER GMLRS is its nearly doubled range compared to the current munition. This translates to a significant advantage on the battlefield, allowing forces to engage targets from a safer distance while maintaining the GMLRS' well-known precision. "Our capabilities provide range options, affordability and of course the continued precision of this enhanced system," Price added.

The successful test paves the way for further development and production of the ER GMLRS. Lockheed Martin expects the rocket to be built at their Precision Fires Center of Excellence in Camden, Arkansas. This new munition is expected to be readily deployable by existing HIMARS and M270 MLRS launcher platforms, requiring minimal integration efforts.

The ER GMLRS represents a significant advancement in long-range precision fire capabilities for the U.S. Army and its allies. This successful test signifies a major step forward for Lockheed Martin as they continue to develop innovative solutions for modern warfare. With its extended reach and continued accuracy, the ER GMLRS promises to redefine the battlefield of the future.