Breaking News
NATO Upgrades British Army MLRS A2 with Advanced Smoke Systems for Enhanced Battlefield Concealment.
On December 9, 2024, the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) awarded a contract to ISTEC Services Limited for the development and supply of advanced smoke discharger systems (SDS) for the British Army's M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) A2. This initiative reflects NATO's commitment to equipping allied forces with advanced technology to maintain a strategic advantage on the battlefield.
By the end of the decade, the British Army is set to more than double its fleet of M270 MLRS platforms (Picture source: British MoD)
The M270 MLRS A2, a core asset of the British Army's artillery, will gain significant capability from these SDS, which are designed to rapidly deploy smoke screens that obstruct enemy observation and targeting systems. The smoke, effective in both visual and infrared spectrums, disrupts line-of-sight and guidance mechanisms, enabling vehicles to reposition under fire while reducing the risk of detection and targeting. This enhanced protection is critical for ensuring operational flexibility and survivability during high-intensity combat scenarios.
The M270A2, an upgraded version of the M270, enhances long-range precision fire capabilities. Key improvements include a new 600-horsepower engine, advanced transmission, and upgraded launcher modules, increasing its reliability and mobility. The integration of the Common Fire Control System (CFCS) enables the M270A2 to fire next-generation munitions, such as the Extended-Range Guided MLRS (ER GMLRS) rockets and the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), significantly expanding its operational range. An improved armored cab further bolsters crew protection against ballistic threats and improvised explosive devices, ensuring safety in diverse operational environments.
The British Army has embarked on an ambitious modernization program to upgrade its MLRS fleet to the M270A2 standard. Announced in 2021, the initiative aims to extend the platform's service life until 2050. By September 2023, the UK had unveiled its newly upgraded M270A2 launchers at the DSEI defense exhibition in London, highlighting progress in strengthening its artillery capabilities. Before modernization began, the Royal Artillery operated around 40 MLRS units. Current plans aim to double this number, with approximately 80 launchers expected in service by 2026.
ISTEC Services Limited, a UK-based defense company, secured the contract thanks to its expertise in tailoring solutions to military vehicle requirements. The company’s longstanding collaboration with NSPA and experience with the MLRS platform position it as a trusted partner for delivering these enhancements. Adrian Webster, ISTEC's Operations Manager, emphasized the importance of providing the British Army with an advanced defensive suite designed to meet the demands of modern combat.
This development is part of a broader UK initiative to modernize its artillery. Since 2022, the program has focused on integrating advanced technologies, refurbishing existing platforms, and revitalizing stockpiled units to ensure an adaptable and capable artillery force. By May 2024, the UK Ministry of Defence had announced plans to upgrade up to 85 MLRS platforms by 2030, complemented by investments in tactical simulators and additional weapon systems.
Greg Sherwood, MLRS Senior Operations Manager for Defence, Equipment and Support, underlined the strategic value of this contract, noting that it equips troops with essential tools for maintaining operational effectiveness. The advanced smoke dischargers augment the M270A2’s capabilities, ensuring readiness for evolving combat scenarios.
This collaboration between NATO, ISTEC, and the UK Ministry of Defence demonstrates the importance of international partnerships in enhancing defense capabilities. The deployment of these advanced SDS systems on the M270A2 platform strengthens the British Army's operational effectiveness while aligning with NATO's broader objectives to provide allied forces with reliable, innovative solutions.
As the British Army progresses with its MLRS modernization, integrating systems like ISTEC's SDS showcases a forward-thinking approach to equipping forces with tools designed to ensure success in complex and dynamic combat environments.