The U.S. Army announced the first delivery of its next-generation Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM) on December 8, 2023. The new missiles would help the U.S. Army achieve modernization priority for long-range deterrent capability.
PrSM is the U.S. Army’s next-generation long-range precision strike missile capable of neutralizing targets beyond 400 kilometers. The new surface-to-surface weapon is modular for future growth and is HIMARS and Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) compatible.
Precision Strike Missiles
The delivery of the first batch of missiles follows successful production qualification testing at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, in November.
Launched from M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems and M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket Systems, the PrSM is capable of neutralizing targets at standoffs greater than 400 kilometers. The PrSM features an open-systems architecture design to accommodate future growth.
“The Precision Strike Missile will provide Joint Force commanders with a 24/7, all-weather capability that will counter the enemy’s ability to conduct combat maneuver and air defense operations,” Doug Bush, assistant secretary of the Army for acquisition, logistics and technology, said. “The rapid development and delivery of this capability is a prime example of the Army’s aggressive use of new acquisition authorities from Congress that allow us to move at much greater speed to get improved equipment to Soldiers.”
Developed by Lockheed Martin, the first Precision Strike Missiles delivered to the U.S. Army would provide long-range precision fire capability and achieve a major modernization milestone.
“Thanks to the close collaboration between Army and Lockheed Martin teams, we accelerated PrSM’s development program on an aggressive schedule to deliver this next-generation missile faster than ever before,” said Jay Price, vice president of Precision Fires at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.
PrSM features
PrSM provides the Joint Force Commander with increased range, lethality, survivability and missile load out and enhanced capabilities. Key features include:
- Two PrSM rounds per launch pod
- Ranges from 60 to 499+ kilometers
- Open systems architecture
- Modular and easily adaptable
- IM energetic payload
- Compatible with MLRS M270 and HIMARS family of launchers
