TACMS completes sixth flight test
The modernised Tactical Missile System (TACMS) has completed its sixth test flight at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, Lockheed Martin announced on 22 May.
The long-range test saw the modernised TACMS launched from a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher. The 'hot conditioned' missile engaged and destroyed a target approximately 240kms away.
According to the company, the test confirmed that the missile functions as designed and meets the contract and performance requirements of the Engineering and Manufacturing Development programme.
The TACMS is a long-range tactical surface-to-surface missile that can be fired from the entire family of Multiple Launch Rocket System launchers.
The missile is being modernised under the US Army’s TACMS Service Life Extension Program, with updated guidance electronics and added capability to defeat area targets without leaving behind unexploded ordnance. The TACMS modernisation process disassembles and demilitarises TACMS Block 1 and 1A submunition warheads, replacing them with new unitary warheads. The modernisation process also resets the missile's shelf life of more than 10 years.
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