The British Army will acquire PrSM, a supersonic ballistic missile capable of striking targets up to 500 kilometres away. The ministry said the capability will support the UK’s contribution to NATO deterrence by allowing the Army to find, fix and strike threats before they can endanger NATO forces and territory.
PrSM will significantly extend the Army’s current land-based strike range. The missile is compatible with the UK’s upgraded M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System launchers, meaning no additional vehicle modifications will be required.
The missile is currently built by Lockheed Martin and is designed to destroy stationary enemy systems and weapons at ranges of up to 500 kilometres. The ministry said future development could enhance the capability further.
The investment will give the British Army a deep surface-to-surface ballistic missile capability. It will complement the Army’s One Way Effector drone and ground-launched cruise missile capability, creating a mix of long-range precision strike options for defence and deterrence within NATO.
PrSM is a collaborative programme between the United States and Australia. Subject to agreement with both countries, the UK could receive its first deliveries in 2027.
The announcement follows a NATO Defence Ministers meeting focused on cooperation and deterrence. Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis met with US Secretary of War Hegseth during the meeting.
“I am absolutely determined to give our soldiers the weapons they need as they defend our nation and NATO,” said Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis MBE MP. “This new investment into a precision strike missile will help to strengthen our Army and our security at this increasingly dangerous time.”
“The US and Australia are vital defence partners, and I am working with Secretary Hegseth and Deputy Prime Minister Marles to deliver this programme alongside AUKUS,” Jarvis said. The ministry said UK participation will provide benefits to the UK, the United States, Australia and NATO beyond the immediate military capability.
Those benefits include collaborative work to further develop the missile, involving British industry and workshare to produce the missile. The ministry said this would create good jobs in the UK.
The programme aligns strongly with AUKUS Pillar 2 through cooperation with the United States and Australia. The ministry said the UK also remains committed to the Deep Precision Strike and European Long Range Strike Approach with European partners, including Germany.
PrSM will be a complementary capability available immediately. The ministry said it does not replace longer-term collaborative programmes.
