In the latest round of testing at the historic White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, Lockheed Martin’s next-generation Extended-Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (ER GMLRS) has demonstrated its impressive capabilities. Fired from the U.S. Army’s High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher, two of these advanced rockets successfully engaged multiple targets at extended ranges.
Table of Contents
Lockheed Martin’s New Rocket Doubles Range, Packs a Bigger Punch for US Army
This test comes just months after a previous successful trial of the ER GMLRS system at the same firing range, further solidifying its readiness for deployment. The ER GMLRS boasts a larger motor and enhanced maneuverability compared to its predecessor, allowing it to strike targets well beyond the reach of traditional artillery.
With a variety of warhead options, including unitary, high-explosive, and anti-armor configurations, the ER GMLRS can be tailored to specific tactical objectives or target types, minimizing collateral damage through its precision-guided munitions.
According to Lockheed Martin, the most recent test saw the ER GMLRS rockets achieve exceptional flight trajectories, ranges, and accuracies, successfully engaging the designated targets and meeting all performance criteria.
“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.”
The ER GMLRS is a critical asset for modern land forces, enabling them to strike targets that were previously out of reach while minimizing collateral damage. Launched from both the HIMARS and the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) M270 mobile platforms, these advanced rockets provide a significant boost to the Army’s long-range precision strike capabilities.
With over 70,000 GMLRS rounds already produced under an ongoing contract, Lockheed Martin’s Precision Fires Center of Excellence in Camden, Arkansas, is well-equipped to meet the demand for these cutting-edge munitions. As the ER GMLRS inches closer to full-scale production and fielding, the U.S. Army and its allies can look forward to a formidable new addition to their long-range fire support arsenal.
