US Army First Overseas Use of PrSM and AML during Valiant Shield 24.

The U.S. Army has taken a significant step in enhancing its long-range strike capabilities with the first successful deployment of two Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM) and an Autonomous Multi-Domain Launcher (AML) during the combined joint exercise Valiant Shield 24. This marked the first use of both the PrSM and AML outside the United States, signifying a key moment in the Army's focus on innovation in joint operations.
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On June 16, 2024, the 3d Multi-Domain Task Force and the 1-181 Field Artillery Regiment of the Tennessee National Guard used the U.S. Army's Autonomous Multi-Domain Launcher and two Precision Strike Missiles to engage a maritime target during the Valiant Shield 24 (Picture source: US Army)

The exercise occurred on June 16, 2024, involving the 3rd Multi-Domain Task Force and the 1-181 Field Artillery Regiment of the Tennessee National Guard. These units deployed the AML to engage a mobile maritime target, integrating this capability into a broader context of joint force assets. Held biennially, the Valiant Shield SINKEX aims to enhance the interoperability and versatility of joint forces in a multi-domain environment.

In addition to advanced missile technology, the exercise highlighted the importance of unmanned aerial systems for communication relays. The Vanilla system, a drone known for its ultra-long endurance, played a crucial role by ensuring continuous communication for 27 hours, including during a severe storm. This demonstrated its operational capacity in extreme weather conditions. Vanilla, which holds the world record for the longest continuous unrefueled flight for a combustion engine aircraft, was assessed during this exercise as reaching Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 8.

Furthermore, high-altitude balloons were launched from Won Pat International Airport in Guam by soldiers from the 3MDTF in partnership with the Research and Experimentation branch of the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense. Equipped with electromagnetic sensors and mesh communication systems, these balloons operated above 50,000 feet to aid in maritime domain awareness innovation and experimentation.

All-domain operations centers established in Oahu and Japan facilitated synchronized planning and execution of the exercise, enabling teams across the Pacific to achieve their training objectives. Colonel Michael Rose, the commander of the 3MDTF, emphasized the importance of these exercises in integrating new capabilities and strengthening relationships with partners and allies, contributing to the ongoing transformation of the Army's multi-domain capabilities.

Valiant Shield 24 not only served as a platform to test innovative systems and processes but also strengthened the U.S. Army's combat readiness, ensuring that its forces are well-prepared to effectively respond to a variety of mission scenarios across sea, air, space, land, and cyberspace.