Finland approves acquisition of extended-range GMLRS rockets
GMLRS is a surface-to-surface artillery rocket. (Photo - Lockheed Martin)
Worth €70 million ($79.2 million), a new deal for Finland comprises GMLRS – Alternative Warhead (ER GMLRS-AW) and Extended Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems – Unitary (ER GMLRS-U) rockets.
The Finnish MoD on 11 February announced its approval of a €70 million ($79.2 million) deal to buy ammunition for the Lockheed Martin Extended Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS).
Deliveries are expected to start in 2025.
When officially signed, the deal will comprise Extended Range GMLRS - Alternative Warhead (ER GMLRS-AW) and
ER GMLRS - Unitary (ER GMLRS-U) rockets.
According to a press release from the Finnish Army, both ammunition typesm have a range of about 150km, which ‘significantly improves the performance of heavy rocket launchers and extends their range’.
Shephard Defence Insight notes that the GMLRS is a surface-to-surface artillery rocket fired from the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) and High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers. Currently, Finland is equipped with 22 units of the MLRS.
GMLRS rockets provide 24/7, all-weather precision fires to engage both area and point targets at short, medium and long ranges.
The FMS package was approved by the US State Department on 17 February 2021. The purchase is part of a Finnish plan to ensure the usability and performance of heavy rocket launchers by the 2050s.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![DSEI 2025: ST Engineering kicks off export drive for new Bronco 3]()
DSEI 2025: ST Engineering kicks off export drive for new Bronco 3
The original Bronco was developed to meet the requirements of the Singapore Army and subsequently built in large numbers and many configurations.
-
![DSEI 2025: ST Engineering and ARIS discuss partnership to offer Bronco all-terrain carrier to Italian Army.]()
DSEI 2025: ST Engineering and ARIS discuss partnership to offer Bronco all-terrain carrier to Italian Army.
On the show floor at DSEI 2025, representatives from ST Engineering and ARIS, and retired Italian general Ivan Caruso outlined the background to the teaming agreement with land warfare expert Christopher F Foss.
-
![DSEI 2025: As more possible CV90 orders loom, BAE Systems confident on production rates]()
DSEI 2025: As more possible CV90 orders loom, BAE Systems confident on production rates
The company is investing in increasing production while major subcontractors also push to keep up with demand, with Sweden’s recent Request for Information potentially adding another 500 to the order book.
-
![DSEI 2025: Controp Discusses AI-Enabled Multi-Domain Surveillance Solutions]()
DSEI 2025: Controp Discusses AI-Enabled Multi-Domain Surveillance Solutions
At DSEI 2025, Controp representatives outline how artificial intelligence is being integrated with electro-optical payloads to improve decision-making and operational efficiency across land, air, and maritime domains.
-
![SCD highlights advances in infrared imaging for defence operations]()
SCD highlights advances in infrared imaging for defence operations
Infrared imaging manufacturer SCD outlines its approach to enhancing visibility for defence forces operating in complex environments.
-
![DSEI 2025: First mobility trials completed for British Army Challenger 3 tanks]()
DSEI 2025: First mobility trials completed for British Army Challenger 3 tanks
The mobility trials saw the Challenger 3 main battle tank (MBT) tested at a variety of locations in the UK, covering a combined 760km across a variety of terrains including road and cross country.
