How Lockheed Martin is Designing with The Future Battlefield in Mind

Michael Williamson, Tactical & Strike Missiles Vice President

Delivering Precision for the Future

In the same way soldiers must adapt to changes on the battlefield, so too must the tools they rely on every day. That’s why it’s so important that Lockheed Martin designs products that adapt to the future needs of the warfighter.

One example of how we’re meeting U.S. Army modernization priorities to accommodate these future needs is the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM). PrSM is the U.S. Army’s next-generation long-range, deep-strike missile capable of attacking, neutralizing, suppressing and destroying targets at ranges up to 499+ kilometers. PrSM is also adaptable and the culmination of a forward-looking approach teamed with a digital engineering mindset.

It all starts with an innovative, modular design that offers multiple options for future growth. An open systems architecture allows for interoperability between different assets in the warzone and sets the table for future upgrades.

We’ve digitally transformed our manufacturing process to streamline production with automation. And the use of new digital engineering tools and advanced technologies has improved PrSM’s producibility, quality and performance.

We’re using 3D printing techniques to create parts that allow us to adapt quickly to design changes while ensuring durability and reliability of the components and system. This saves time and drives efficiency. 

Designed with the future in mind, PrSM is on track to become the U.S. Army’s Long-Range Precision Fire missile of choice for a long time to come.

Building Upon Success

Speaking of long-term success, the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) is a mainstay on the battlefield that is so revered, it’s become known as the “70-kilometer sniper rifle.”

But even a system with that record of success can be enhanced. To provide more versatile options and restore advantage for commanders, we’re developing the next generation called Extended-Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (ER GMLRS).

Set to debut in its first flight test later this year, ER GMLRS will extend the range out to 150+ kilometers. That kind of increase in striking distance will provide new capabilities to the warfighter of tomorrow while improving their ability to cover the battlespace.

Much like PrSM, ER GMLRS has a modular design that allows for continuous upgrades as well as an open systems architecture designed for maximum affordability and flexibility.

For more than 40 years, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control has been the leading designer and manufacturer of long-range, surface-to-surface precision strike solutions. But we’re not looking back. We’re looking forward.

Tomorrow’s warfighter will rely on us, and we do not take that responsibility lightly.