Rapid advancements in technology have increased the speed of defense. Commanders have to make decisions faster and need versatile, flexible options in their arsenal for security and deterrence. And, having the capability to strike from farther distances has become more crucial than ever before.
Enabled by sea, air and land forces, a wider base of Long-Range Precision Fires (LRPF) is critically important to protect homelands, critical assets and when required, execute time-critical targeting to deter emerging threats across the globe.
Strategically-postured LRPF capabilities are important to support deterrence, provide 24/7 counterfire capability and strike land and maritime targets.
These solutions require a network of systems working together seamlessly on the battlefield – converging assets across all domains, linking sensors with the best shooter and providing complementary options to joint force commanders.
One of the best solutions available to support the long-range precision strike mission is the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher. HIMARS is a highly effective, survivable and mobile system with an outstanding track-record of combat-proven reliability.
With a suite of munitions ranging 15 to 499+ kilometers, and including the next-generation Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) and Extended-Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System, HIMARS can integrate into the joint architecture which provides the options commanders need on the battlefield now and in the future. Additionally, HIMARS is a JADO-enabling capability that can help improve response time.
Here are ways HIMARS and its next-generation munitions are a mainstay for Indo-Pacific security and deterrence.
HIMARS
- Technically advanced, affordable and sustainable, HIMARS is interoperable with the latest precision munitions that range 15 to 499+ km.
- Shoot and scoot capability and rapid reloading enhance HIMARS survivability in high threat environments
- There are more than 550 fielded worldwide which have accumulated more than 2 million operating hours.
- Joint and coalition commanders can rapidly position HIMARS using C-130 aircraft immediately expanding the battle space for strategic targeting.
- HIMARS can augment offensive counter air operations with precision fires capable of engaging point and area targets.
- HIMARS provides time sensitive targeting and time critical targeting to support all domain operations.
PrSM
- PrSM is a surface-to-surface, all-weather, precision-strike guided missile, fired from HIMARS and M270.
- The next-generation munition range is 499+ kilometers.
- It is designed to neutralize and address threat air defense systems, missile launchers, command and control (C2) nodes, troop assembly/staging areas and high-payoff targets throughout the battlefield at ranges of more than 499 kilometers.
- Future increments with increased capability will provide even greater flexibility to commanders.
ER GMLRS
- The Extended-Range GMLRS is another next-generation munition that increases capability and flexibility of the current GMLRS improving battlespace coverage.
- ER GMLRS will reach 150 km and deliver the same responsiveness and accuracy commanders have come to expect from GMLRS.
- ER GMLRS offers the same choice of munitions, designed to address point or area targets, at longer distances which improve options to support Multi-Domain Operations
The battlespace continues to change at a rapid pace and capabilities must be able to rapidly respond, adapt and work in concert with each other across all domains. HIMARS is a critical solution that meets these needs for our global partners
Tom Stanton is an International Business Development Director at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.