Lockheed Martin Secures $220 Million Contract for PrSM Missile Range 1000 Km

Defense News ,U.S :-  The U.S. State Department has officially approved a contract for the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) system, marking a significant leap in military capabilities for ground-to-ground ballistic missiles. This cutting-edge system, designed to succeed the ATACMS missiles, is set to be utilized with HIMARS and MRLS rocket artillery platforms.

Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the PrSM, secured a substantial USD 220 million contract for the third production batch. Currently, these missiles are in the initial operational capability stage, with production scheduled at Lockheed Martin's facilities in Grand Prairie, Texas. The contract is expected to be fulfilled within the next two years, concluding by March 6, 2026. Additionally, there are prospects for a fourth production series contract in September this year, indicating ongoing investments in this advanced weaponry.

The PrSM offers an impressive minimum range of 500 km, potentially extending up to 1000 km, surpassing its predecessor, the ATACMS missiles, with a 300 km range. Compatibility with the same launchers as the ATACMS, namely the MRLS and HIMARS systems, allows for more efficient use of space in the launchers. This advancement enables a HIMARS launcher to simultaneously carry two ballistic missiles, effectively doubling its payload. The PrSM is also expected to elevate effectiveness through enhanced accuracy, jamming resistance, and superior warheads.

While the exact quantity of missiles under the USD 220 million contract remains unclear, considering the 2022 cost of an ATACMS missile was approximately USD 1.5 million, the technologically advanced PrSM may be priced at up to USD 3 million each. This estimate suggests that the current contract could cover the production of approximately 70-75 missiles, with an anticipated 30-40 to be manufactured within the next 12 months.