In an unprecedented event, Lockheed Martin successfully conducted the launch of two of the U.S. Army’s new PrSM (Precision Strike Missiles) as part of production unit qualification tests. This test, carried out at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, was executed in a salvo configuration to validate the launch capability of the new ballistic missiles from the M142 HIMARS high-mobility artillery rocket system.
The PrSM represents the next generation of ballistic missiles for the U.S. Army, capable of neutralizing targets over 400 kilometers away. Its modular design allows for future upgrades and is compatible with the Army’s current M142 HIMARS and M270 rocket and missile artillery systems.
The first batch of PrSM missiles was delivered in December 2023, marking the beginning of the replacement of the MGM-140 ATACMS ballistic missiles. Army officials stated that the delivery of the first missiles, in the version known as Precision Strike Missile Increment 1 Early Operational Capability, followed a successful production qualification test in November 2023. This test involved the launch of a missile at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico from an M142 HIMARS system, striking a set of short-range targets.
This milestone joins a previous demonstration during the SINKEX Valiant Shield 24 exercise last June, where a PrSM missile was launched from Palau in the Pacific Ocean, successfully striking a moving target at sea.
Regarding the most recent test, announced by the company on November 19, it aimed to conduct additional validations of system accuracy and readiness in its production variant. Two PrSM missiles were launched, completing a mid-range flight to assess and qualify production under the fourth Early Operational Capability (EOC) contract.
Looking ahead, the U.S. Army plans to enhance the PrSM’s capabilities, including an advanced seeker for efficiently engaging mobile targets at sea, as well as technology for increased lethality and extended range. In the short term, the PrSM’s priority is achieving maritime strike capability.
You may also like: The U.S. Army is conducting tests and evaluations on the new upgrades introduced to its M1A2 Abrams tanks
