Lockheed Martin's Precision Strike Missile completes shortest-range flight test

Lockheed Martin's Precision Strike Missile completes shortest-range flight test
by Brad Bartz
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Nov 27, 2023

In a significant advancement for U.S. Army's long-range precision strike capabilities, Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has successfully completed a pivotal production qualification flight test of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. This test marks the shortest distance flown by the PrSM, showcasing its precision and structural integrity in a highly dynamic and stressful flight environment.

Fired from a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher, the PrSM accurately struck a predetermined target, underscoring its ability to perform in both long-range and short-range scenarios. While the PrSM is primarily designed for longer-range missions, this test is crucial as short-range flights pose a more challenging and dynamic environment, especially at hypersonic speeds. The success of this test solidifies PrSM's role as a versatile and reliable component in the U.S. Army's arsenal.

Jay Price, Vice President of Precision Fires at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, emphasized the significance of this achievement. "This demonstration is the first of several production qualification tests moving PrSM closer to fielding and delivery of Early Operational Capability (EOC) missiles this year," Price stated. He further highlighted the PrSM as "a critical capability and the top long-range precision fires modernization priority for the U.S. Army."

The recent test follows Lockheed Martin's receipt of a third production contract in September 2023 for the manufacture of additional EOC missiles, reflecting the U.S. Army's confidence in the PrSM system. The PrSM represents the next generation of long-range precision strike missiles, capable of engaging targets more than 400 kilometers away. Its design incorporates an open systems architecture for affordability and adaptability, and it is compatible with both HIMARS and M270 launching systems.

Lockheed Martin's ongoing efforts in developing the PrSM are part of a broader strategic initiative to enhance the U.S. Army's long-range precision fire capabilities. This initiative aligns with the Army's overarching goal to maintain technological and military superiority in an evolving global landscape. The successful integration of advanced systems like the PrSM into existing military platforms underscores a focus on versatility, adaptability, and future growth potential in modern military technology.