Lockheed's HIMARS gears up for global dominance as rocket artillery sees resurgence

Lockheed Martin is set to present an enhanced version of its High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) in a 2024 demonstration in Germany. The aerospace giant collaborates with Rheinmetall to introduce the GMARS weapon, designated for Germany. The upcoming demo, approximately 12 months away, aims to highlight improved firepower and capabilities of the GMARS. Tom H. Stanton, director of international business development, anticipates a pivotal event, although specific details are yet to be defined. 

As an official tender for the Bundeswehr program awaits release, Lockheed positions the GMARS as a potential replacement for Germany's MARS 2 multiple launch rocket systems. The partnership with Rheinmetall emphasizes increased firepower, intending to double the munition capacity. Howard Bromberg, VP for strategy and business development, outlines the GMARS's double load-out capability, accommodating a variety of munitions, aligning with Germany's defense requirements. 

Competing solutions and resurgence of rocket artillery 

A probable competitor, the European version of Israel's Elbit Systems' PULS artillery piece, emerges through the German-Franco KNDS joint venture. The resurgence of rocket artillery, exemplified by HIMARS, gains prominence amid the Ukraine war, with impactful strikes against Russian forces. Multiple European nations, including Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, and Poland, express interest or acquire HIMARS, solidifying its global impact.

Addressing user nations' demands for greater accuracy, Lockheed notes an economic consideration driving precision requirements. The development of munitions like GMLRS and ATACMS reflects a need for accuracy in targeting threats with fewer missiles. The ongoing extension of range in newer munitions, exemplified by the next-generation PrSM, involves technological advancements for improved striking capabilities. Lockheed, in partnership with the U.S. government, is actively developing PrSM Increment 2 with moving target capability, extending its range beyond 499 kilometers. 

Technical insights: M142 HIMARS and capabilities 

The M142 HIMARS, developed in the late 1990s, is a light multiple rocket launcher mounted on a standard U.S. Army Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) M1140 truck frame. Carrying one pod with six GMLRS rockets or one ATACMS missile, it provides flexibility in munition deployment. The HIMARS, based on the FMTV five-ton truck, offers transportability by various aircraft, including C-17 Globemaster, C-5 Galaxy, and Lockheed C-130 Hercules.  

While interchangeable with the M270 MLRS, the HIMARS is limited to a single pod, differentiating it from its counterparts. Notably, Lockheed's HIMARS upgrade, showcased in the 2024 German demo, signifies a significant leap in artillery capabilities, addressing the evolving needs of global defense forces.