Polish Minister of National Defense, Mariusz Blaszczak, officially approved a framework contract for the acquisition of 486 M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) missile launchers. The contract signing took place on Monday, September 11, in Torun, marking a historic moment in Poland’s pursuit of enhanced military capabilities. The framework agreement, established between the State Treasury – Armament Agency of Poland and the United States Government, encompasses the delivery of HIMARS launchers specifically tailored to meet the requirements of 27 rocket artillery squadrons within the HOMAR-A system. This comprehensive agreement includes not only the supply of launchers but also logistics and training packages, with the United States committed to providing essential technical support. Anticipated to commence in 2025, the deliveries will be carried out according to a carefully orchestrated schedule. Poland’s commitment to modernizing its defense capabilities through the HOMAR-A program demonstrates its dedication to maintaining a robust and capable armed forces, ready to meet the challenges of the future.
The HOMAR-A program’s implementation will proceed with the signing of individual executive contracts involving both American and Polish entities. These contracts will encompass the provision of ammunition and various support vehicles, including command, technical security, ammunition, and technical evacuation vehicles. Crucially, the HOMAR-A program emphasizes the transfer of technology, aiming for maximum “polonization” by integrating Polish elements. This includes the incorporation of M142 HIMARS launcher components with JELCZ chassis and the Polish TOPAZ integrated battle management system. The program also seeks to acquire technology related to selected missiles used by the HIMARS systems, thereby enhancing Poland’s indigenous missile capabilities. The HOMAR-A rocket launcher system boasts the capability to strike enemy targets within its operational range, extending up to an impressive 300 kilometers. This formidable reach ensures that Poland’s Land Forces will benefit from essential fire support, enhancing their operational effectiveness.
The initial contract for the delivery of the first divisional fire module of HOMAR-A rocket launchers, configured in the “American configuration,” was signed in February 2019. This agreement encompasses the delivery of 18 M142 HIMARS combat launchers, including two for training purposes, along with a supply of rocket ammunition such as GMLRS and ATACMS, as well as school (LCRRPR) resources. The order also covers command vehicles, ammunition vehicles, evacuation tractors, and a comprehensive range of logistic, training, and technical support. Deliveries for the first HOMAR-A squadron are already underway and are expected to be completed by the end of this year. The introduction of HOMAR-A rocket launchers is a pivotal development for the Polish Armed Forces, enabling them to execute deep fire strikes with precision. The system’s munitions, guided by inertial and satellite navigation systems, are capable of accurately engaging targets at distances of up to 70 kilometers using GMLRS ammunition, and extending to an impressive 300 kilometers within the operational theater using ATACMS missiles.
The M142 HIMARS, the backbone of the HOMAR-A program, is a versatile multiple rocket launcher mounted on a standard United States Army Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) M1140 truck frame. It carries one pod loaded with either six Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets or one Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missile. This design ensures compatibility with all rockets specified in the Multiple Launch Rocket System Family of Munitions (MFOM). While HIMARS ammunition pods are interchangeable with the M270 MLRS, it is distinguished by its ability to transport a single pod, in contrast to the standard two for the M270 and its variants. The United States State Department has approved a Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Poland for the acquisition of these HIMARS launchers and related equipment, with an estimated cost of $10 billion. This milestone underscores the strong partnership between Poland and the United States, enhancing Poland’s defense capabilities and contributing to regional security.
