Lockheed Martin have announced that the Extended-Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (ER GMLRS) has completed a series of Systems Qualification Tests (SQTs) executed over the past two years proving the system’s range and accuracy.
Each test is propelling the system closer to being fielded by the U.S. Army as it completes its final phase of development.
Noteworthy, ER GMLRS is roughly doubling the range of its predecessor, the GMLRS rocket, from more than 70 km to 150 km while providing the same level of reliability and precision.
Besides, the system is deployable by HIMARS and the MLRS M270 family of launchers.
Notably, ER GMLRS has now completed another series of flight tests at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico firing Alternative and Unitary Warhead variants of the rocket.
The tests pushed the system’s limits to a variety of distances from short and midrange flights to max-range.
Each test confirmed the system’s ability to integrate with the HIMARS launcher as well as the projectile’s range, trajectory and accuracy.
Prior to launch, the rocket pods underwent Stockpile to Target Sequence (STS) testing.
The effort simulates cumulative effects ER GMLRS will meet in the field between factory and launch for the life of the system and demonstrates durability of the missile and launch pod container.
Following the SQT flight series, Extended-Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System will move forward with operational testing with the U.S. Army.
Worth mentioning that Lockheed Martin has produced more than 60,000 GMLRS rounds and is under annual contract to continue production of GMLRS unitary and alternative-warhead rockets including integrated logistics support for the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps and international customers.
Once ER GMLRS enters production, it will be produced at the company’s Precision Fires Center of Excellence in Camden, Arkansas.
