First announced in mid-2022, the Lockheed Martin-built M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) will provide the Australian Army with a next-generation, long-range strike capability.
Australia initially committed to a batch of 20 HIMARS with an additional 22 HIMARS announced in January 2023, with AU$1.6 billion to help accelerate the critical acquisition.
Manufactured by Lockheed Martin, HIMARS provides a multiple launch rocket system on a wheeled chassis or carrying a six-pack Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) or a single tactical cruise missile.
As part of expanding Australia's long-range strike capability, Australia's HIMARS will be equipped with the current in-development Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), expected to provide a maximum striking range of more than 500 kilometres.
The HIMARS platform is a highly mobile, combat-proven system, transportable by C-130 or C-17 aircraft, with the first of Australia's initial batch of HIMARS to be delivered in 2025 and the remainder expected to be delivered by 2027.