MLRS upgrade continues with another contract modification
MLRS rockets in flight. (Photo: US Army/Cpl Jaewoo Oh)
Lockheed Martin is modernising the US Army arsenal of multiple launch rocket systems to the M270A2 configuration.
The US Army is expanding its fleet of upgraded Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) launchers after awarding Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control a $214.71 million contract modification.
Lockheed Martin will provide an undisclosed number of its M270A2 MLRS.
It will perform the work in Texas with an estimated completion date of 30 September 2024.
As an upgraded variant of the M270 MLRS, the M270A2 features the Common Fire Control System; new engine, transmission and launcher-loader modules; and improved armoured protection for the cabin.
Shephard Defence Insight notes that Lockheed Martin was initially contracted by the US Army to upgrade 50 MLRS launchers to the M270A2 standard in 2019. A follow-on contract was awarded in 2020.
Ultimately, the recapitalisation effort will upgrade the existing US Army fleet of 225 M270A1 MLRS launchers, plus 160 decommissioned M270A0s slated for de-militarisation, to M270A2s.
This upgrade will keep the system in service until 2050, according to Lockheed Martin.
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