Exclusive: Lockheed Martin Demonstrates Autonomous HIMARS Rocket Launcher to Advance US Army Modernization.

U.S. Company Lockheed Martin achieved a significant milestone in autonomous systems development with successfully demonstrating an uncrewed capability using a surrogate HIMARS rocket launcher truck on December 4, 2024. This groundbreaking test highlights the company’s commitment to advancing the U.S. Army’s artillery modernization efforts by integrating innovative technology into combat-proven systems.
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Lockheed Martin's surrogate HIMARS® launcher demonstrates autonomous navigation and operation during a groundbreaking test, showcasing the future of unmanned artillery systems for the U.S. Army. (Picture source: Lockheed Martin)

The demonstration showcased the surrogate HIMARS launcher’s ability to navigate autonomously without a driver, utilizing non-emitting perception sensors. This capability allows for seamless operations both day and night without the need for a crew, a crucial development for missions requiring flexibility and stealth in complex environments. Integrating this technology into the existing HIMARS fleet enhances its adaptability while maintaining compatibility with re-supply vehicles, enabling synchronized operations between manned and unmanned systems.

The U.S. Army’s vision for the future includes pairing manned HIMARS launchers with autonomous wingman systems, a concept designed to optimize artillery efficiency and operational flexibility. Lockheed Martin’s success in demonstrating autonomous capabilities is a significant step toward realizing this vision. The company’s approach not only upgrades the existing HIMARS fleet but also retains the option for crewed operations, maximizing the Army’s investment in its launcher systems.

“Our approach offers a unique solution that allows the Army to upgrade their existing HIMARS fleet with enhanced autonomous capability, while retaining the option for crewed operations,” said Becky Withrow, Business Development Director at Lockheed Martin. “This maximizes customer investment and provides the flexibility to adapt to changing mission requirements.”

The ongoing development of autonomous systems aligns with Lockheed Martin’s commitment to the Army’s 21st Century Security vision, which emphasizes agility and adaptability to counter emerging threats. Plans for 2025 include advancing mission planning activities to reduce the cognitive burden on soldiers interacting with autonomous systems. A follow-up demonstration in the latter half of 2025 will refine the technology further, underscoring the company’s dedication to delivering innovative solutions.

“At Lockheed Martin, we are proud to be at the forefront of developing technologies that support the Army's vision for a more agile and adaptable force,” said Tim Cahill, President of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “Advancing this technology for our combat-proven launchers is a testament to our dedication to delivering innovative solutions that empower our military to stay ahead of emerging threats.”

The importance of unmanned systems in modern warfare cannot be overstated. Lockheed Martin’s advancements in autonomous systems, such as the uncrewed HIMARS launcher, reflect a broader trend toward integrating unmanned combat systems into future battlefields. The modern battlefield is increasingly defined by the need for rapid adaptability, reduced risks to personnel, and enhanced precision, all of which are driving the adoption of autonomous technologies.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has underscored the critical role of unmanned systems in contemporary warfare, particularly in contested environments where human-operated systems face heightened vulnerabilities. In Ukraine, both sides have employed drones, autonomous vehicles, and robotic systems for surveillance, precision strikes, and logistical support. These systems have proven invaluable in navigating challenging terrains, conducting operations in high-risk zones, and minimizing human casualties.

Drawing lessons from this experience, the development of autonomous HIMARS capabilities represents a step toward equipping the U.S. Army with systems that can operate effectively in such contested environments. By reducing reliance on human crews, these technologies enhance survivability and operational effectiveness in scenarios where traditional systems may be compromised. Autonomous systems like the HIMARS launcher are not only cost-effective but also pivotal in maintaining operational tempo and delivering precision effects in multi-domain operations.

This achievement builds on Lockheed Martin’s extensive legacy in developing advanced autonomous and unmanned systems for the U.S. military and allied forces. The company continues to combine defense expertise with commercial best practices to deliver affordable, scalable, and cutting-edge solutions.

Recent advancements, including Sikorsky’s MATRIX™ flight autonomy system and Lockheed Martin Skunk Works’ successful crewed-uncrewed teaming missions using AI-controlled aircraft, further demonstrate the company’s leadership in integrating autonomous technologies across various platforms. These efforts aim to optimize operational flexibility, accelerate decision-making, and enhance collaboration between human and machine assets.

The integration of autonomous capabilities into the HIMARS fleet supports the U.S. Army’s all-domain deterrence strategy and operational modernization goals. Lockheed Martin’s innovative technologies ensure that the Army remains well-equipped to address evolving challenges, reinforcing its position as a global leader in defense innovation.