Long-Range Precision Fires: number one Army modernisation priority

Long-Range Precision Fires, the number one Army modernisation priority, is focused at providing the US Army with a deep-strike capability. This mission is critical to winning in a fight against a peer adversary or other hostile regime – the priority threats in the latest US defence strategy.

The Aviation and Missile Research, Development, and Engineering Center (AMRDEC) at the Redstone Arsenal, AL, is investing science and technology (S&T) funding to support this capability. Dr. Michael Richman, Associate Director for Missile Development within the Weapons Development and Integration Directorate at the Center, stated: “AMRDEC Missile S&T is pursuing technologies within the Low Cost-Tactical Extended Range Missile (LC-TERM) Technology Demonstration Programme to improve navigation, warhead and propulsion technologies to increase operational effectiveness of existing fire units thru enhanced lethality and extended range.” 

While the army was unable to provide specific dates and other scheduled test event information for the programme, Dr. Richman confirmed: “The technologies being demonstrated within the LC-TERM programme are focused at meeting or exceeding the requirements of the Long Range Precision Fires Missile Programme being executed by PEO Missiles and Space.” 

Dr. Richman additionally noted that, “the S&T focus is on advanced propulsion to extend the range of missile systems.” 

To that end the Missile S&T Enterprise is also investing in the following four missile propulsion areas: optimisation of energetic material components; expanding operating temperature bounds; liner/grain systems; and safety/environmental compliance.

Marty Kauchak