Finnish army to get M270A2 upgrade for its M270A1 MLRS Multiple Launch Rocket Systems.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency on August 1 announced that the State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Finland of an M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) upgrade and related equipment for an estimated cost of $395 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale.
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The M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) is an upgraded version of the widely-used M270 MLRS (Picture source: Lockheed Martin)

The Government of Finland has requested to buy the M270A2 upgrade for its M270A1 Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS). The upgrade will include intercom systems; radio communication mounts; machine gun mounts; battle management system vehicle integration kit; publications for MLRS; spares; services; support equipment; and other related elements of program and logistics support. The estimated total cost is $395 million.

The principal contractors will be Lockheed Martin Inc., Grand Prairie, TX; Chelton Inc., Marlow, United Kingdom; Leonardo DRS, Arlington, VA; and Loc Performance Products, Inc., Plymouth, MI. Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Finland.

The M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) is an upgraded version of the widely-used M270 MLRS, a self-propelled rocket artillery system developed by the U.S. and its NATO partners. The M270A2 brings several improvements and enhancements to the original system, ensuring its continued effectiveness on the battlefield.

One of the key features of the M270A2 is its improved fire control system, which enables faster and more accurate targeting, as well as better coordination with other units on the battlefield. The upgraded MLRS also comes with enhanced communication systems, allowing for seamless integration with other military assets and command structures. This, in turn, enables better situational awareness and the ability to adapt to changing battlefield conditions more quickly.

The M270A2 is equipped with a new launcher module and is able to fire the ER GMLRS (Extended Range Guided) rockets which are 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 M270 MLRS family of launchers. The rounds incorporate a larger motor and have enhanced maneuverability due to tail-driven control.

Defense News August 2023