Lockheed Martin has successfully completed production qualification tests of the PrSM (Precision Strike Missile) missile in collaboration with the US Army, taking an important step towards increasing production capacity. The tests were conducted at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. During the tests, two PrSMs were launched from the HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) artillery system towards targets. These launches successfully verified the missile’s long-range accuracy and operational readiness.
In the statements made after the tests, it was emphasized that such qualification tests are one of the critical stages in Lockheed Martin's missile development process. Conducting reliability, performance and effectiveness tests of the missile system confirms that the PrSM meets all required safety and effectiveness standards before reaching the battlefield.
Purpose Behind Tests
Carolyn Orzechowski, Vice President of Precision Fires Launchers and Missiles at Lockheed Martin, emphasized the importance of the tests, saying, “As we approach the Army’s full-scale production decision, we continue to validate production during qualification tests.” She also noted that recent tests have confirmed the firing volume at different ranges and demonstrated that the PrSM can be launched in rapid succession. This increases the operational capability of the system while also providing speed and efficiency in the production process.
Increase in Production Capacity and Contract Support
Lockheed Martin has signed a contract worth up to $400 million for a kit that will increase production capacity to 120 missiles per year after tests were conducted. This development is of great importance with the high volume production and supply of the PrSM missile to the US Army. Developed as a next-generation long-range precision strike missile, the PrSM is designed to enable the US Army to neutralize targets over 400 kilometers away.
Lockheed Martin stated that the PrSM has a flexible and modular design, allowing it to be easily adapted to future system developments. It was also stated that the missile system can be used in conjunction with the HIMARS and M270 artillery systems. This indicates the system's versatile use potential.
New Mobile Launcher Concept Introduced
Lockheed Martin also introduced its new mobile launcher concept at the US Army Human-Machine Integration Summit. This new system has the capacity to carry 24 227 mm guided artillery munitions. It is also stated that the new system has four times the ammunition capacity of HIMARS. The new launcher system has the ability to fire ground-air anti-aircraft missiles as well as ballistic missiles and artillery rockets. This system has the capacity to better meet the future combat needs of the US Army.
These new tests and increased production capacity by Lockheed Martin are important steps toward improving the operational efficiency and versatility of the PrSM missile and new mobile launcher system. These developments are critical to the U.S. Army’s ability to adapt to the modern warfighting environment.
