Lockheed Martin wins MLRS contract

Lockheed Martin has announced that it has received a contract from the US Army for the first phase of a three-year development programme that will increase crew protection and update the army's fleet of Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) M270A1 mobile rocket launchers. The company announced the contract, worth $27.1 million, on 26 June 2012.

The contract will see Lockheed Martin upgrade, assemble and test seven prototype vehicles. Phase one is expected to be followed by a production contract for the army's entire fleet of 225 vehicles.

The company said that during this initial phase, Lockheed Martin will replace the launcher's cab, which expands interior volume by 40 percent and incorporates new energy-absorbing seats that provides additional protection from mine blasts and improvised explosive devices. The company will also move the fire control panel to provide commonality with the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher and enhance survivability through extensive armouring in the new cab.

Lockheed Martin is the prime contractor for M270A1 research and development, and is partnered with BAE Systems Land and Armaments LP.