Lockheed Martin Plans Demo in Germany to Showcase Advanced HIMARS Rocket Launcher in 2024.

In a recent development reported by the American "Defense News" website on December 20, 2023, Lockheed Martin, an American defense company, is preparing for a significant demonstration in Germany in 2024. The event will feature a new version of the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) with enhanced firepower.
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HIMARS is an advanced long-range and mobile rocket system in service with the U.S. Army and the U.S. Marine Corps. (Picture source U.S. DoD)

According to American Company Lockheed executives, this upgrade of the HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) rocket/missile launcher represents a notable advancement in artillery capabilities and is set to draw considerable attention in the defense sector. The demonstration aims to highlight the system's improved functionalities and its potential applications in modern warfare scenarios.

Germany is on the brink of upgrading the German army's (Bundeswehr) artillery capabilities. This decision comes at a time when several European nations are focusing on bolstering their defense mechanisms. The Bundeswehr's current artillery system, the MARS II which is a German version of the American M270, has been in service for a while, with Germany having already provided five units to Ukraine in 2022, demonstrating its commitment to supporting allies.

As the German government prepares to open this lucrative defense contract for bids, two major industrial collaborations have emerged as frontrunners. On one hand, Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KNDS Deutschland) has joined forces with Elbit Systems, an Israeli defense company, to offer the Euro PULS. This innovative system, known as the Multi-Purpose Universal Launching System, represents a significant leap in artillery technology, offering versatility and advanced capabilities.

In June, the German press reported that the German Ministry of Defense had a preference for the PULS, especially since the Netherlands had just announced their intention to order twenty units. The idea was then to strengthen cooperation between the German and Dutch armies by pooling their resources, particularly in terms of operational maintenance and possibly ammunition purchases.

Howard Bromberg, a vice president for strategy and business development, described the German interest in a specific feature of the GMARS. He noted that this system has a 'double load-out' capability, enabling it to hold two munitions pods. This configuration allows the launcher to accommodate various combinations: either two Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), a dozen Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS) or their extended-range variants, or four Precision Strike Missiles (PrSMs) across the two pods.

Rocket artillery has experienced a significant resurgence due to the war in Ukraine. This type of artillery, known for its ability to deliver a large volume of firepower over a considerable distance in a short period, has become a key asset in the conflict. The use of rocket artillery in Ukraine highlights its strategic value in modern warfare, offering rapid, high-volume strikes that can be crucial in both offensive and defensive operations.

These systems, capable of launching multiple rockets in rapid succession, have proven effective in targeting enemy positions, disrupting supply lines, and providing support for ground troops. The conflict in Ukraine has brought renewed attention to the tactical advantages and potential of rocket artillery in contemporary combat scenarios.

Defense News December 2023