The Army is advancing its capabilities in land-based rocket technology with plans for a missile system that can be launched from an autonomous platform, targeting locations over 1,000 kilometers away. This development was discussed by Maj. Gen. Winston Brooks, the commander of the Fires Center of Excellence at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and Brig. Gen. Rory Crooks, the director of the Cross Functional Team-Long Range Precision Fires, during a meeting on Tuesday.
This initiative focuses on “Increment 5” of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) program. If achieved, it would enable even lower-level tactical units to execute “strategic deep fires,” which can reach distances beyond 500 kilometers, according to Army data.
In November 2023, the Army conducted its first two PrSM salvo tests at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. These tests featured the rapid firing of two missiles using the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher.
Brig. Gen. Crooks mentioned that while the potential for an autonomous launcher is promising, there is currently no set timeline for the complete development and fielding of this technology. He emphasized that they are in the science and technology phase of what may become Increment 5.
Currently, the PrSM is constrained by its launching platform, with the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) pod measuring 13 feet in length. Crooks noted that the absence of a driver’s cab in an autonomous system could allow for the potential design of longer missiles in the future.
The PrSM program aims to replace older systems like the MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System. This legacy weapon was notably used by Ukrainian forces in October 2023 for strikes on Russian targets. The U.S. missiles provided to Ukraine had a limited maximum range of less than 300 kilometers, contrasting with deployments of the U.S. Army.
Lockheed Martin is currently fielding the Increment 1 versions of the PrSM, which possess a minimum range of 500 kilometers. Future increments are planned: Increment 2 will focus on a land-based anti-ship seeker, Increment 3 will introduce various lethal payload options, and Increment 4 aims to extend the missile’s range beyond 1,000 kilometers.
Todd South, the author of this report, has a background in covering crime, courts, government, and military topics since 2004 and is recognized for being a 2014 Pulitzer finalist. He is also a veteran of the Iraq War.
