Global Artillery Solutions: Tailored Launchers Provide Deterrent Capability for NATO Partners and Allies
Global security requires technology that enables allies to work together as one force to stay ahead of growing threats. Equipment must be interoperable with partner nations and also connect to a network of advanced systems that can operate across all domains.
Lockheed Martin is developing and delivering all-domain deterrent systems to support these requirements now and for the future needs of those who serve. We’re also adapting our systems for international partners.
Connected, capable, artillery systems like HIMARS and M270A2, are in high demand and urgently needed to protect homelands, critical assets, and when required to execute time-sensitive targeting deterring threats across the globe.
We’re building our combat-proven launchers for domestic and international customers, but also in some cases adapting these systems for international partners with fire control system compatibility. Our customized solutions integrate key launcher components, from M270A2 and/ or HIMARS, onto existing assets or choice vehicles for international partners.
Through partnerships, MLRS launchers can be tailored to meet country-specific requirements and support industrial cooperation opportunities.
Read on to learn more about how international partners can tailor MLRS launchers to support their specific country requirements.
Tailored Solutions
We’re working with international partners to strengthen defense capability and their industrial base. Partnership opportunities can include customized equipment, in-country production, and in some cases transfers of technology.
Within the last year, Lockheed Martin signed an MOU and a framework agreement to integrate key components of the HIMARS onto German and Polish vehicles respectively. These collaborative efforts are examples of tailored solutions at work and we’re continuing to accelerate our partnerships.
Localization is important to our customers and the agreements above demonstrate our commitment to meeting partner requirements for security of supply and strengthening local defense industry.
NATO and Allied Partner Commonality
Allies must be able to work together as one force and demonstrate credible military deterrence to foster stability and peace. Our systems integrate into the joint architecture and NATO task force, which provides options commanders need now and in the future.
With more than 20 nations operating HIMARS and M270, operators have the opportunity for munitions storing and sharing as well as the benefit of common training, common operations and common software through a Common Fire Control System (CFCS). Recent joint training exercises in Latvia and strategic collaboration with NATO allies at the European HIMARS Summit in Romania demonstrate the importance of partner integration and interoperability.
Not only do our systems, including CFCS-compatible launchers, meet requirements for NATO interoperability and allied partner’s joint architecture, they are the most modernized solution when it comes to technology, availability and security.
Interoperability
Lockheed Martin solutions work together to converge assets across all domains, link sensors with the best shooter and provide complementary options to joint force commanders. Our all-domain-enabling artillery systems meet mission-critical needs, can improve response time and offer next-generation long-range munitions capability– like the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) and Extended-Range GMLRS (ER GMLRS).
Earlier this year, we also demonstrated a proof-of-concept for providing in-flight target updates to a surrogate GMLRS. This capability could enable Army deep-strike capabilities with offensive fires against moving targets in contested environments.
Advancing technology and 21st Century Security to deliver these next-gen capabilities, we’re integrating offensive and defensive systems to support rapid response in defeating threats. Moreover, our systems work together with – in many cases – already procured assets like F-35.
More than interoperability between products and systems, our partnerships also synergize maintenance sustainment and training through common munitions and replacement parts.
Current and Future Munitions
Only Lockheed Martin’s systems – HIMARS, M270 and now partner-specific CFCS-compatible launchers – can deploy the MLRS Family of Munitions (MFoM). The munitions suite includes our current GMLRS rocket and ATACMS, as well as next-generation systems like PrSM and ER GMLRS.
These munitions provide unmatched accuracy, reliability and choice of capability. MFoM options are designed to address point or area targets at distances ranging out past 400+ kilometers. This wide range of capability improves support for Joint All-Domain Operations (JADO) and security requirements for global partners.
More below on MLRS munitions options.
- Known as the “70-kilometer sniper rifle,” GMLRS is an all-weather, precision-guided rocket that increases accuracy, reducing the number of rockets needed to defeat targets.
- GMLRS comes in two variants: a unitary, which helps reduce collateral damage in urban engagements, and an alternative option to address imprecisely located (area) targets.
- The Extended-Range GMLRS is a next-generation munition that increases capability and flexibility of the current GMLRS improving battlespace coverage.
- ER GMLRS reaches 150 km and delivers the same responsiveness and accuracy commanders have come to expect from GMLRS.
- Highly accurate and combat proven, ATACMS provides adaptable, stealthy firepower against a wide range of targets at distances up to 300 km.
- In full-rate production for the U.S. Army and international partners, militaries continue to employ ATACMS in combat when the mission requires a long-range weapon system with precision-engagement capability.
- PrSM is a surface-to-surface, all-weather, precision-strike guided missile with proven range of 499 kilometers.
- PrSM is designed to neutralize threat air defense systems, missile launchers, command and control (C2) nodes, troop assembly/staging areas and high-payoff targets.
- Future increments with increased capability will provide even greater flexibility to commanders.