Lockheed Martin is preparing to demonstrate an improved version of its High Mobility Rocket System in Germany in 2024. The HIMARS system, according to Lockheed, will feature improved firepower and is a replacement for the German Armed Forces’ MARS 2 system.
“We are probably somewhere around 12 months out from a demo in Germany, although I can’t further define what it will consist of,” Tom H. Stanton, director of international business development for tactical missiles and fire control at Lockheed Martin told Defense News in an interview on Dec 13.
According to Howard Bromberg, a strategy and business development vice president, the Germans are interested in the ‘double load-out capability’. This new capability allows the HIMARS to carry two Army Tactical Missle Systems, 12 Guided Multiple Launcher Rocket Systems or Extended-Range GMLRS, or four precision Strike Missiles, between just two pods.
The improved HIMARS systems demonstrated to the Germans will be known as GMARS; the ‘G’ denoting Germany.
Competition in Europe
One competitor vying for the German contract is a version of the PULS artillery piece from Israel’s Elbit Systems. This is being marketed with the German-Franco KNDS joint venture that combines Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Nexter. The Netherlands ordered 20 of these systems in May.
The current count of HIMARS operating countries on the European continent is approaching seven, including Ukraine and Romania.
“Based on the demand for munitions like GMLRS and ATACMS, customers are looking for a high level of precision – to address the threat precisely where it is and with fewer missiles fired,” Bromberg added.
Bromberg stated that increased accuracy is becoming an elevated request due to economic considerations.
Top HIMARS Features
Here are some key features of the HIMARS platform.
1. Capacity
Capable of being operated by a crew of three that do not need to leave the cab. Each crew member has access to communications, including an internal comm and vehicle controls, increasing effective coordination during operation.
2. Weight
The HIMARS M142 is light enough to be transported in a C-130, which allows for access to places bigger transport cannot access.
3. Missiles
The HIMARS can launch various types of rockets within seconds. In just 20 seconds, a rocket load can be prepped and within 45 seconds, it can be fired. These rockets are GPS-guided, which means they are accurate. Another type of projectile, known as the Army Tactical Missle can reach targets up to 310 KM away.
4. Reload Time
A HIMARS crew can reload the rocket system in less than five mn with the help of the integrated crane equipment, which can be operated remotely to ensure the safety of the crew.
5. Accuracy
HIMARS platforms stand out amongst similar equipment due to its use of GPS guidance. If launched at higher altitudes, the missile range can be extended, making it three times more accurate than a traditional howitzer.
6. Precision
The HIMARS can quickly shoot six rockets that are GPS-controlled. The platform can use a range of ammunition that can reach a distance of 15 KM to more than 499 KM.
7. Enhancements
The HIMARS launcher can use interchangeable fire control systems, communication systems, and video and keyboard controls, and incorporates a large amount of program storage, along with GPS guidance. The fire control computer can also be used to allow for automatic and manual fire missions.
