Production qualification flight test completed for Precision Strike Missile from HIMARS launcher
The PrSM test firing took place over a short distance. (Image: Lockheed Martin)
Lockheed Martin has successfully completed a production qualification flight test of PrSM with the US Army in a demonstration at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico.
The missile was fired from M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher to hit a set target and, according to a statement from Lockheed Martin, was a short-range flight test over an undisclosed distance.
The test was described as ‘the shortest-distance flown to date demonstrating the system’s continued accuracy from launch to impact’.
It was designed as a stressful and dynamic environment for the hypersonic missile as it manoeuvres and verifies structural integrity of the missile and trajectory control.
Jay Price, VP of Precision Fires at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said: ‘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.’
The test followed a third production contract to produce additional EOC missiles awarded in September 2023.
PrSM is a next generation long-range precision strike missile capable of destroying targets out to more than 400km. The new surface-to-surface weapon features an open systems architecture design for maximum affordability and flexibility, is modular for future growth, and HIMARS and M270 compatible.
More from Land Warfare
-
First locally built KF41 Lynx IFV handed over to Hungary
The KF41 procurement is part of Hungary’s Zrínyi 2026 development plan and is one of several efforts to procure modern, NATO-standard platforms that will supersede legacy equipment received from the Soviet Union by 2026.
-
How Spain’s acquisition of PAC-3 MSE can boost European air defence
Madrid will increase interoperability with the other seven users of next-gen Patriot in the region.
-
MBDA announces new VSHORAD system at Farnborough International Airshow 2024
The VSHORAD supersonic single-operator interceptor air defence system was unveiled at Farnborough.
-
Raytheon notes CUAS laser success and pushes for faster air defence manufacture
Raytheon’s Patriot air defence system has been in high demand with orders and commitment coming in from Germany, Romania and Spain.
-
BAE Tridon MK2 fitted with Chess Dynamics fire control system
The collaboration between the defence giant and the gunfire control specialist will help deliver a modular anti-drone solution.