A week after the contract award, Lockheed Martin successfully demonstrated the system’s capability at Dugway Proving Grounds in Utah. Three ground-launched shots from a vehicle resulted in direct hits, including one unobstructed and two obstructed targets, underscoring its ability to engage without line of sight.
The U.S. Army seeks a capability that can be readily available and fielded to bridge a current gap in operational requirements. The demonstration highlighted the Spike NLOS’s potential to provide IBCT-equivalent vehicles with an organic long-range strike capability.
“Our matured Spike NLOS system provides the U.S. Army with an advanced defense solution that delivers direct-strike and long-range capability in combat operations where maneuverability, reconnaissance and security matter most,” said Casey Walsh, Lockheed Martin Multi-Domain Missile Systems programme director. “We understand the importance of the M-LRPSM Directed Requirement and look forward to working with the U.S. Army to demonstrate how Spike NLOS is the ideal choice when it comes to combat agility and increased operational flexibility.”
Spike NLOS is already qualified under the Long Range Precision Munitions Directed Requirement (LRPM DR) for the U.S. Apache AH-64E. It has also undergone ground vehicle testing and integration on Oshkosh’s Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) for U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).
Lockheed Martin intends to leverage its matured Spike NLOS system to meet the Army’s objective of accelerating fielding to IBCT users. This approach would deliver a rapid M-LRPSM solution for light combat vehicles such as the JLTV.
The next phase of the competition will involve safety confirmation testing and a further narrowing of competitors. A final selection for the M-LRPSM Directed Requirement will be announced once the second phase is complete.
