TACMS in new test flight
The modernized Tactical Missile System (TACMS) has completed a new test firing at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, Lockheed Martin announced on 27 April.
This fifth test flight saw a cold-conditioned TACMS launched from a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher, and fly approximately 85km to its target.
According to Lockheed Martin, the test further confirmed that the missile functions as designed and meets the contract and performance requirements of the Engineering and Manufacturing Development programme.
As part of the US Army’s TACMS Service Life Extension programme, the modernised missile includes new 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 and bringing them into compliance with Department of Defense policy on cluster munitions and unintended harm to civilians. The modernisation process also resets the missile’s 10+ year shelf life.
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