Science & Tech · Science & Environment · 3 hrs ago
GMLRS rocket redirects in flight and hits moving target in Army test
Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Army demonstrated an in-flight target change during a test at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.
A GMLRS rocket launched from a HIMARS launcher received updated targeting information through a communications link and then hit a moving target.
The test showed an existing rocket could change its target after launch, rather than relying only on information set before firing.
This could help commanders respond when a target moves or battlefield conditions change, though the system still depends on accurate data and reliable communications.
The approach connects existing technologies instead of requiring a fundamental redesign of the rocket.
Lockheed Martin says similar systems could be adapted for Extended Range GMLRS and the Precision Strike Missile, but each would need integration and testing.
Further testing will be needed before operational use is established.
Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Army demonstrated a GMLRS rocket changing targets in flight and striking a moving target.
The test took place at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.
After launch from a HIMARS, the rocket received updated targeting information through Lockheed Martin’s Strigo datalink and RIG-360 system.
The demonstration connected existing technologies rather than requiring a fundamental redesign of the rocket.
Lockheed Martin said the approach could also be applied to Extended Range GMLRS and the Precision Strike Missile, subject to integration and testing.
- Who
- Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Army conducted the demonstration.
- What
- A GMLRS rocket received updated targeting information in flight and struck a moving target.
- When
- Not stated.
- Where
- White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.
- Why
- To demonstrate how existing rocket systems could support more flexible precision targeting.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
A GMLRS rocket was fired from a HIMARS.
The team sent updated targeting information to the rocket using Strigo and RIG-360.
The rocket changed its target assignment and struck a moving target.
- Test site
- White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico
- Rocket
- Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS)
- Launcher
- High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS)
- Datalink
- Strigo
- Guidance system
- Remote Interceptor Guidance-360 (RIG-360)
- Potential applications
- Extended Range GMLRS and Precision Strike Missile