$289 Million for Launchers and Associated Hardware
Lockheed Martin announced on 25 September it has received an order, valued at $289 million, from the US Army for launchers and associated hardware for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS).
The contract calls for the production of 24 HIMARS launchers and associated equipment by July 2022. Lockheed Martin has delivered nearly 500 launchers for the US Army and international customers to date.
HIMARS is a lightweight mobile launcher, transportable via C-130 and larger aircraft for rapid deployment, that fires Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets and Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles. The weapon system consists of a launcher-loader module and a fire control system mounted on a five-ton truck chassis. A specialised armoured cab provides additional protection to the three crew members that operate the system.
A combination of effectiveness and reliability, alongside performance, interoperability, the potential for joint coalition operations and the added value of joint munitions procurement, make HIMARS a sound option for nations seeking effective precision fires options.