U.S. Army Completes Successful Soldier-Led Flight Tests of Lockheed Martin’s PrSM
- MM24 Multimedia Desk
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
The Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) fires from a Lockheed Martin-built M270A2 and HIMARS during tests at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. Photo Cred: US Army
The U.S. Army has successfully completed a series of soldier-led flight tests of Lockheed Martin’s Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, marking another major milestone in the Army’s long-range precision fires modernization program. The tests, conducted in September, demonstrated the readiness, range, and operational capability of the next-generation missile system — a key step toward enhancing battlefield lethality and mission flexibility.
During the test campaign, U.S. soldiers launched multiple PrSM rounds from both the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and the M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). This marked the first time missiles were fired from both pods of the MLRS launcher, showcasing full compatibility across the Army’s fielded platforms. The successful firings validated the system’s ability to operate seamlessly across launch systems, reinforcing the Army’s goal of delivering adaptable, interoperable long-range strike capabilities to its forces.
“This milestone validates the soldier’s ability to fire PrSM from all platforms in the U.S. Army inventory and certifies mission readiness,” said Carolyn Orzechowski, vice president of Precision Fires Launchers and Missiles at Lockheed Martin. “Lockheed Martin is committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation to deliver the most advanced 21st Century Security solutions to the warfighter — leveraging digital technologies to streamline development, testing, and fielding.”
The recent series of live-fire events demonstrated the missile’s extended range, accuracy, and lethality against diverse target sets. Each test met or exceeded performance benchmarks, from launch to impact, underscoring PrSM’s reliability and precision under realistic battlefield conditions. By integrating seamlessly with proven launch platforms, the system enhances the Army’s capacity to engage targets at significantly greater distances — a critical advantage for deterring near-peer adversaries and ensuring homeland defense.
According to the Army, the success of the soldier-led test campaign reflects not only the missile’s technical maturity but also the growing emphasis on soldier participation throughout development. Hands-on testing by operational crews ensures that the weapon system aligns with field requirements and user feedback, allowing for rapid iteration and deployment readiness.
The PrSM program represents one of the most important modernization efforts under the Army’s Long-Range Precision Fires (LRPF) portfolio — a top priority within the service’s broader transformation to multi-domain operations. The missile is designed to replace the aging Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), offering greater range, precision, and flexibility to engage time-sensitive and high-value targets.
With a range exceeding 400 kilometers, PrSM is engineered to deliver long-range precision strike capability against a variety of stationary and mobile targets. The missile features an open-systems architecture that enables affordability, rapid upgrades, and integration with future technologies. Its modular design allows for continuous evolution, including potential enhancements in seeker technology, multi-mode guidance, and alternative payloads — ensuring the weapon remains adaptable to emerging operational needs and future threats.
The collaboration between the Army and Lockheed Martin has been characterized by speed, agility, and innovation. Through a shared commitment to iterative testing and data-driven development, the program has accelerated progress from concept to operational validation. The partnership also reflects the Army’s broader push toward modern, digitally enabled acquisition strategies — reducing costs and timelines while maintaining high standards of reliability and safety.
The successful flight tests at White Sands not only validate PrSM’s operational readiness but also pave the way for its fielding in upcoming Army units. As the system transitions toward production and deployment, it is set to become a cornerstone of the Army’s precision fires capability — providing commanders with the ability to deliver accurate, long-range firepower against a wide range of threats.
By merging cutting-edge missile technology with proven launcher systems, the PrSM program enhances the Army’s deterrence posture and ensures soldiers have the advanced tools they need to succeed in complex, contested environments. Lockheed Martin’s continued investment in precision strike solutions underscores its role as a critical partner in advancing national defense priorities and supporting the U.S. Army’s vision for future-ready warfare.
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