US Army Awards Lockheed Martin Major HIMARS Production Contract.

In June 2024, Lockheed Martin secured two important contractual actions from the U.S. Army, totaling $2.8 billion, for the delivery of up to 311 M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers through the fiscal year 2028.
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Lockheed Martin M142 High Mobility Rocket Missile Launcher (HIMARS) (Picture source: Lockheed Martin)

This order, executed via a contract modification procedure, provides for the delivery of 215 additional HIMARS launchers by 2028, according to the Army. Additionally, on May 8, the Army awarded Lockheed Martin a firm-fixed-price contract worth $861 million for the delivery of 96 HIMARS launchers. This contract represented the base year funding value authorized for fiscal year 2024.

On June 3, the Army awarded Lockheed a $1.9 billion contract modification for additional HIMARS systems, with a completion date set for May 31, 2028, according to a Pentagon notice.

With this contract modification, the approved contract ceiling by the government for fiscal year 2024 through fiscal year 2028 reaches $2.79 billion, enabling the procurement of a total of 311 HIMARS. This total includes the 96 systems from the May 8 contract and the remaining $1.93 billion, allowing for the procurement of up to 215 additional systems from fiscal year 2025 to fiscal year 2028.

"Current and planned contract awards support the requirements of U.S. and international customers," the Army stated in a release. The HIMARS are among the weapon systems that the United States is sending to Ukraine as part of security assistance programs to help the country in its conflict with Russia. A $225 million weapons package announced by the Department of Defense on June 7 included HIMARS munitions.

Lockheed Martin indicated that the quantities of HIMARS awarded under the recent contract will be based on future demand over the coming years. The supply "expands the U.S. Army's launcher fleet and will fulfill orders from global partners," the company stated.

To recall, the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) is a mobile artillery launcher developed by the United States, operational since 1998. It is based on a standard Army M1140 truck frame, enhancing its mobility. The system can launch multiple types of munitions, including the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) and the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), with a range of up to 300 kilometers depending on the type of munition. The HIMARS carries either a six-pack of rockets or one missile, with the capability for quick reloading to maintain operational tempo in combat scenarios.

The HIMARS is notable for its rapid deployment capabilities, as it can be quickly moved and set up to launch and then relocate before it can be targeted by enemy fire. It is compatible with C-130 and larger aircraft for air transport, facilitating rapid redeployment across diverse operational environments. The system's precision targeting capabilities, facilitated by its fire control system and GPS guidance, aim to minimize collateral damage while effectively engaging targets.

The technology integrated into HIMARS includes an advanced fire control system and a communications suite that integrates with various military platforms for coordinated operations. Its GPS guidance system enhances accuracy, thereby minimizing unintended damage and increasing strike effectiveness. Additionally, its capability to interface with advanced surveillance and reconnaissance systems allows for real-time targeting adjustments, further enhancing operational effectiveness.

For Ukraine, the introduction of HIMARS systems has played a significant role in the conflict with Russia. These systems have provided Ukrainian forces with the ability to execute precise, long-range strikes on critical Russian positions and logistical networks, impacting the dynamics of military engagements. The precision and operational range of the American M142 HIMARS enable strategic targeting that conserves civilian areas and reduces risks to Ukrainian forces. The inclusion of these systems has also been a significant aspect of international military support for Ukraine.

Lockheed Martin M142 High Mobility Rocket Missile Launcher (HIMARS) (Picture source: Lockheed Martin)