Lockheed Martin to modernize more US army M270 MLRS rocket launchers to M270A2 standard

Defense News June 2022 Global Security army industry
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According to a contract published by the United States Department of Defense on June 9, 2022, American company Lockheed Martin was awarded a $32,979,835 modification contract to recapitalize the U.S. Army M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System into the M270A2 configuration.
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In this picture, M270 is on the right and the new M270A2 is on the left. (Picture source Ronkainen Twitter account)

The M270A2 MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket System) is an upgraded variant of the Lockheed Martin M270 MLRS. The A2 version features the Common Fire Control System (CFCS), as well as a new engine, transmission, launcher-loader modules, and improved armored cabs.

The M270 is a combat-proven 227mm Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) artillery vehicle manufactured by Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. The M270 MLRS is operational in the US Army, and fourteen countries have fielded or ordered MLRS: Bahrain, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, The Netherlands, Norway, Turkey, and United Kingdom.

The latest variant of the M270 MLRS is able to launch unguided/guided rockets at a maximum firing range of 70 km as well as the long-range Lockheed Martin Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) guided missiles at a maximum range of 300 km.

The M270A2 MLRS uses the same tracked chassis which is based on the American M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle. The crew cabin of the A2 version is higher and has reinforced armor to increase protection against the firing of small and IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) threats.

The M270A2 is also able to fire the ER GMLRS (Extended Range Guided) rockets which is a new developmental variation of the Guided MLRS family, ER GMLRS offers an extended range out to 150 kilometers in all weather conditions. ER GMLRS shares significant commonality with legacy Guided MLRS, and is deployable by HIMARS and the MLRS M270 family of launchers. The rounds incorporate a larger motor and have enhanced maneuverability due to tail-driven control.