Lockheed Martin secures USD 3.43 billion order for GMLRS rockets

By Defence Industry Europe

The United States has placed an order for USD 3.43 billion worth of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets, a key component of its precision artillery capabilities. The U.S. Department of Defence announced that it had signed a contract with Lockheed Martin for the production of these rockets, which are compatible with both HIMARS and MLRS M270 launchers.

 

The GMLRS rockets, known for their precision and reliability, are equipped with satellite guidance systems and can strike targets up to 80 kilometres away. They are fired from launch pods, with HIMARS carrying one pod of six rockets, while the M270 launchers can carry two pods. To date, more than 60,000 GMLRS rockets have been produced, boasting a reliability rating of over 98 percent.

 

 

This latest order aligns with the U.S. military’s plans to significantly increase its production of artillery ammunition and GMLRS rockets. In 2023, the Pentagon’s Vice Chairman of the Army revealed that the U.S. intends to expand production sixfold over the next five years. The estimated completion date for this contract is October 2027, with specifics on locations and funding to be determined as each order progresses.

This move follows a March 2023 request for additional ammunition, which included plans to acquire 5,016 GMLRS guided missiles for $886 million. The expansion is part of broader efforts to enhance the U.S. and its allies’ long-range precision-strike capabilities.

 

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Only Lockheed Martin currently produces GMLRS rockets for the U.S. Army and its allies. In addition to U.S. efforts, Australia has also entered into a contract with Lockheed Martin Australia, valued at USD 37.4 million, to begin local production of GMLRS rockets in 2025.

The GMLRS family includes several variants, such as the Unitary, Alternative Warhead (AW), and the in-development Extended-Range (ER) GMLRS, which will have a range of up to 150 kilometres. The rockets are designed to deliver precise strikes while minimizing collateral damage, making them a critical tool in modern warfare.

 

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