During the highly anticipated Eurosatory 2024 exhibition, German defense leader Rheinmetall and American defense giant Lockheed Martin will jointly unveil their latest innovation: the Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System (GMARS). This collaboration, initiated in 2023, combines the technological expertise of both companies to meet the increasing global demand for long-range rocket artillery solutions. Lockheed Martin, with over 50 years of rocket artillery expertise and partnerships with more than 20 countries, brings transformative technologies and precision fire solutions to the table, supporting global deterrence and 21st-century security needs. Meanwhile, Rheinmetall stands as Europe’s premier supplier of tactical wheeled and tracked vehicles, renowned for its innovative defense technologies and its commitment to global peace and security.
The GMARS system features a highly adaptable 2-pod launcher capable of deploying a wide range of munitions from the MLRS Family of Munitions (MFOM). Among these are the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) and the Extended Range GMLRS (ER GMLRS), both known for their exceptional range and precision. Furthermore, GMARS can launch the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) and the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), which boast impressive ranges of 300 km and over 400 km, respectively. Looking ahead, Rheinmetall has ambitious plans to further enhance the GMARS capabilities. Future iterations will include the ability to fire surface-launched cruise missiles with ranges exceeding 370 km and the inclusion of 122mm rockets, broadening the system’s operational versatility.
The GMARS system is designed with a “shoot and scoot” capability, ensuring quick relocation after firing. The system is operated by a crew of two, with a cabin capacity of three. It requires no outriggers for rapid deployment. A boom and hoist system enables safe reloading in all weather conditions. Inertially navigated and GPS-aided, it ensures accurate firepower over both short and long ranges. The system shares component commonality with the M270/HIMARS and the HX Series of Mobility Platforms, ensuring seamless integration with NATO forces. Engineered for flexibility, GMARS addresses the requirements of multi-domain operations. Rheinmetall’s 8×8 truck design allows for long-distance self-coverage and logistical commonality with the HX family used by the German Army.
GMARS supports both pre-planned and time-sensitive targeting, making it a vital asset for modern military operations. Its design ensures that it remains a robust and adaptable system for a wide range of military applications, enhancing both strategic and tactical capabilities. With the unveiling of GMARS, Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin are set to redefine the standards for mobile artillery systems, offering unparalleled precision, versatility, and operational efficiency to armed forces around the world. If selected by the Bundeswehr, this system would bring significant workshare to the German industry. Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin will present the new GMARS rocket artillery system on 17 June 2024 at 11.00 a.m.
