Arthur McMiler
A new firing test has been completed to demonstrate the accuracy of the Precision Strike Missile, or PrSM, that Lockheed Martin is producing under a U.S. Army contract worth about $4.94 billion, as part of the service branch’s modernization program.
The demonstration used for the first time the M270A2 multiple launch rocket system to carry out a short-range, production qualification test also geared at probing PrSM compatibility with the launcher, Lockheed said in the demo’s announcement Monday.
Accuracy and Reliability Test
According to Carolyn Orzechowski, vice president of precision fires launchers and missiles at Lockheed Martin, the test showed how the missile “works seamlessly” when launched from the Army’s tracked M270A2. “While PrSM’s primary mission is long range fires, Lockheed Martin validates accuracy and reliability of the missile even at the shortest distances before we provide it to warfighters,” added the Lockheed executive.
During its short-range flight launched from White Sands Missiles Range in New Mexico, PrSM demonstrated its maneuverability and capability to stay on target despite stressful conditions, Lockheed said. The test showed the missile’s precision and lethal impact on multiple targets, including a radar and rotary wing platform, the company added.
Extended 400-Kilometer Range
PrSM’s design provides a long-range precision strike capability to engage targets at distances of over 400 kilometers. Besides compatibility with M270A2, the missile’s open systems architecture and modularity also makes it compatible with HIMARS, short for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, launchers.
The PrSM firing from the M270A2 follows previous tests, including a long-range flight in February using a HMARS launcher to engage a target set. Another test followed in March at Vandenberg Space Force , to demonstrate the missile’s extended range, with results above expectations, according to Orzechowski. In December, PrSM’s first soldier-led test was conducted, with HMARS used to engage simulated rotary wing targets.
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