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Lockheed Martin and the US Army have successfully conducted another production qualification flight test of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.
During the trial, a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launched two PrSMs on a long-range mission against designated targets, confirming the system’s accuracy and operational readiness.
This recent test is part of a series of evaluations, following successful flights in November and the first soldier-led test in December 2024. These trials are crucial in Lockheed Martin’s missile development process, ensuring the PrSM’s reliability and performance before deployment.
Carolyn Orzechowski, vice president of precision fires launchers and missiles at Lockheed Martin, said: “We continue to validate production during qualification testing as we approach a full-rate production decision from the Army. The recent tests verify operational capability and volume of fires at various ranges, proving PrSM can launch in rapid succession.”
In support of scaling up production, a contract valued at up to US$120 million (AU$189 million) has been awarded for tooling to increase manufacturing capacity to 400 missiles annually.
The PrSM represents the US Army’s next-generation long-range precision strike capability, designed to engage targets at distances exceeding 400 kilometres. The missile features an open systems architecture for enhanced affordability and flexibility, is modular to accommodate future upgrades, and is compatible with both HIMARS and M270 launch platforms.
Australia has been actively enhancing its long-range strike capabilities through participation in the HIMARS and PrSM programs. In mid-2022, the Australian Army committed to acquiring 20 HIMARS units, with an additional 22 units announced in January 2023, bringing the total to 42 systems.
This acquisition aims to provide the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with a next-generation, long-range strike capability. The HIMARS systems are expected to be equipped with the PrSM, extending their strike range to over 500 kilometres.
In August 2021, Australia partnered with the US in the PrSM program, contributing $70 million to advance the development of this long-range precision fire capability. This collaboration underscores Australia’s commitment to enhancing its defence capabilities through international partnerships.
The first batch of HIMARS units is scheduled for delivery to Australia in the first quarter of 2025, ahead of the initial timeline, due to prioritisation by the US Army. Subsequent deliveries are planned for 2026 and 2027, ensuring all 42 units are expected to be operational by the end of 2027.
Additionally, Australia is exploring options to equip its Army with land-based maritime strike capabilities. Two systems are under consideration: Lockheed Martin’s HIMARS, equipped with the PrSM Increment 2 Land-Based Anti-Ship Missile, and Kongsberg’s StrikeMaster system, which utilises the Naval Strike Missile.
A competitive evaluation process is set to occur throughout 2025 to determine the optimal solution for Australia’s defence needs.
