US tests weapon twice as powerful as HIMARS, revolutionizing artillery

The US has just tested the GMARS global mobile rocket artillery system, which is considered a new step forward with twice the firepower of HIMARS.

The US has just conducted the first test of the GMARS rocket artillery system - an upgraded version with twice the firepower of HIMARS, to strengthen long-range attack capabilities and support rapid combat in modern conflict environments.

GMARS test-fires a 227mm guided missile in the Nevada desert, USA.

Lockheed Martin, in collaboration with Rheinmetall (Germany), conducted the first field test of the GMARS (Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System) at the White Sands Test Range in New Mexico. During the test, two GMLRS missiles were successfully launched, achieving high accuracy and fully meeting technical expectations.

Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS), launched from the M142 HIMARS system in service with the Ukrainian army.

GMARS is a new step forward in the US rocket artillery line, developed based on the outstanding successes of HIMARS - a system that has proven effective in the conflict in Ukraine. The biggest advantage of GMARS lies in its ability to carry twice the number of ammunition: instead of just one launcher cluster like HIMARS (6 GMLRS missiles or 1 ATACMS missile), GMARS can carry two clusters, meaning 12 GMLRS missiles, 4 PrSM missiles or 2 ATACMS missiles in one firing.

GMARS launcher.

This significantly increases the system's sustained firepower, meeting the demands of fast, precise combat in modern battlefield conditions. According to Lockheed Martin, the integration of two launchers does not affect mobility, thanks to the 8-wheel chassis developed by Rheinmetall, which can reach a maximum speed of up to 100 km/h and is easier to maintain than a tracked platform.

However, a notable limitation is that GMARS cannot be transported by C-130 tactical transport aircraft like HIMARS. This makes it difficult to deploy quickly to the front line or in difficult-to-reach areas. However, in return, the new system possesses greater flexibility in ammunition types and the ability to integrate deeply into the NATO alliance defense system.

The new ground launcher is capable of carrying up to 20 227mm guided rockets, quadrupling the firepower of the current HIMARS system.

Another strategic advantage of GMARS is the ability to use the entire range of existing HIMARS and M270 munitions, which will significantly reduce logistics, training and operational costs. In addition, Lockheed Martin is also looking to integrate new munitions, including guided rockets, cruise missiles and high-energy weapons, into the system in the next phase.

The US push to develop and test GMARS comes amid growing demand from Western militaries for mobile, long-range, and highly accurate rocket artillery systems. The conflict in Ukraine has demonstrated the critical role that systems like HIMARS can play in destroying enemy logistics depots, artillery positions, and command centers—a trend that GMARS could continue on a larger scale.

Defense experts say GMARS is not only intended to serve the US’s equipment needs but is also an attractive proposition for NATO allies. Germany – a partner in the development of GMARS – is expected to be the first customer in Europe, as Berlin is looking for a new rocket artillery system to gradually replace older platforms such as the MARS II. The fact that GMARS is partly produced in Europe also helps speed up the delivery process, reducing dependence on the overloaded US defense production line.

An Estonian Defence Forces M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) fires a training missile during a live-fire exercise in Undva, Estonia.

In addition to Europe, several Asian countries are also showing interest in the new system, especially those facing regional security challenges. In the context of many countries developing new long-range munitions, including PrSM with a range of more than 500 km – GMARS is considered a suitable platform to integrate these weapons in the near future.

With its current development momentum, GMARS is expected to become a new pillar in the long-range rocket artillery system of the US and its NATO allies, adding effective attack capabilities on the modern battlefield, while opening a new chapter in transatlantic defense industry cooperation.

Source: https://khoahocdoisong.vn/my-thu-nghiem-vu-khi-manh-gap-doi-himars-cuoc-cach-manh-cho-phao-binh-post2149043776.html