Accelerating the Precision Strike Missile: A Shift in U.S. Army Capabilities

Transitioning to the Precision Strike Missile

The U.S. Army is actively working to expedite the deployment of its Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), with plans to phase out the aging Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) after four decades of service. Major General Frank Lozano, the program executive officer for missiles and space, emphasized the importance of this transition in a recent discussion with Defense News.

Production Milestone

The Army anticipates securing a production contract for the first increment of PrSM by the end of this month. According to Lozano, “We will initiate a contract with Lockheed Martin for the production of 400 missiles.” This step marks a significant advancement in modernization efforts, especially as the Army aims to bolster its long-range strike capabilities.

Production Capacity Enhancement

In preparation for this major production agreement, the Army has collaborated closely with Lockheed Martin to increase manufacturing capacity. Initially introduced into service in December 2023, the PrSM is intended to replace the legacy ATACMS. Lockheed Martin has already delivered the first 26 missiles in 2024, with an additional 54 anticipated this year, bringing the total to 100 missiles.

Strategic Importance of PrSM

The PrSM missile system can be launched from both the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and the M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System, positioning it as a crucial element for U.S. forces. Its capability to strike targets at standoff ranges exceeding 400 kilometers (approximately 249 miles) is particularly vital for military planners in both Europe and the Indo-Pacific, where potential peer adversaries, such as Russia and China, field advanced technologies.

Transitioning Production from ATACMS

With a shared production facility for both ATACMS and PrSM systems, an efficient transition is paramount. Lozano indicated the Army’s intent to phase out ATACMS production to pave the way for enhanced PrSM manufacturing. “I aim to create sufficient production capacity for PrSM to meet both U.S. and foreign military sales requirements,” he remarked.

• The current ATACMS production line is fulfilling orders for Taiwan.
• Anticipated closure of ATACMS production is expected within the next 24 months.

Once ATACMS operations cease, the Army plans to utilize the entire production facility for PrSM, enabling a substantial ramp-up in missile output.

Future Developments and Innovations

The Army is not merely focused on increasing production but is also committed to future capability enhancements. Upcoming increments of the PrSM will introduce:

• An advanced seeker system aimed at improving engagement with moving maritime targets.
• Technologies to elevate lethality and extend missile range.

A primary short-term goal is to enhance PrSM’s proficiency against naval threats, aligning with the Navy’s strategic focus on maritime security.

Long-Range Maneuverable Fires Program

In addition to strengthening PrSM capabilities, Lockheed Martin, alongside RTX and Northrop Grumman, will compete to develop a subsequent increment within the Long-Range Maneuverable Fires program. This initiative seeks to significantly extend the missile’s range, potentially doubling its current maximum of 499 kilometers (310 miles).

Through these strategic advancements, the U.S. Army is positioning itself to meet emerging threats effectively and assertively, ensuring that its missile system capabilities remain cutting-edge in an increasingly complex global security environment.