The U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) a $451 million contract to recapitalize additional M270 systems expanding its domestic fleet of launchers and providing upgrades for global partners. The award follows an initial agreement issued in 2019, and subsequent contracts calling for recapitalization to support mission readiness through 2050. Recapitalization includes complete overhaul and upgrades to the systems with brand new engines, improved armored cabs and the new Common Fire Control System (CFCS) which will provide compatibility with current and future MLRS Family of Munitions (MFOM).
“The modernization effort will add additional capability to the combat-proven launcher and ensure the M270-series launcher remains highly effective, reliable and interoperable with NATO forces for decades to come. The procurement will bring additional precision fires capability to our global partners,” said Jay Price, vice president of Precision Fires for Lockheed Martin.
Lockheed Martin’s next-generation Extended-Range GMLRS and Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) can only be fired by M270A2 and HIMARS launchers. Extended-Range (ER) GMLRS is a new developmental variation of the GMLRS family, ER GMLRS offers an extended range out to 150 kilometers in all weather conditions. ER GMLRS shares commonality with legacy GMLRS, and is deployable by HIMARS and the MLRS M270 family of launchers. The Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) is a short-range ballistic missile developed by the United States Army to replace the MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS).
The M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (M270 MLRS) is an American armored self-propelled multiple launch rocket system. MLRS is a heavy tracked mobile launcher, transportable via C-17 and C-5 aircraft, that fires Guided MLRS rockets and Army Tactical Missile System missiles. The U.S. Army variant of the M270 is based on the chassis of the Bradley Fighting Vehicle. It has received multiple improvements since its inception, including the ability to fire guided missiles. MLRS will also be able to fire the Precision Strike Missile and Extended-Range GMLRS rockets, both currently in development.
