The U.S. Army and Lockheed Martin Missiles
and Fire Control successfully tested the new Guided version of the
Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) rocket at White Sands Missile
Range, N.M., on Wednesday, firing two rounds consecutively. Both
rockets performed nominally.
The rockets were launched from an MLRS M270 Improved Position
Determining System (IPDS) launcher, and flew more than 35 kilometers
to the target area dispensing their submunition payloads. Major test
objectives included the successful launch of the rockets from the
launcher, nominal motor performance, tail fin deployment and rotation,
as well as navigation and telemetry performance.
“We continue to be quite pleased with the performance of this system
and its potential for those who will use it,” said Ron Abbott, vice
president – Fire Support for Missiles and Fire Control. “Guided MLRS
is a complex weapon system, but one that has exceeded our
expectations, especially the guidance and control performance of the
rocket. This is an extremely accurate rocket, as tests have repeatedly
demonstrated.”
The Guided MLRS rocket program is an international cooperative program
between the United States, United Kingdom, Italy, France and Germany.
The Guided MLRS rocket incorporates a global positioning system
(GPS)-aided inertial guidance package integrated on a product-improved
rocket body. Additionally, small canards on the Guided rocket nose
provide basic maneuverability and enhance the accuracy of the system.
Guided MLRS initial operational capability is scheduled for CY’05.
Guided MLRS is the next major step in the evolution of the MLRS Family
of Munitions, offering advanced capabilities, reduced logistics
support and precision attack. The rocket will have a range of
approximately 60+ kilometers.
Located in Dallas, Orlando, Florida, and Sunnyvale, Calif., Lockheed
Martin Missiles and Fire Control develops, manufactures and supports
advanced combat, missile, rocket and space systems. The company is
organized in seven program/mission areas: Strike Weapons, Air Defense,
Anti-Armor, Naval Munitions, fire control and sensors, Fire Support
and Product Development.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global
enterprise principally engaged in the research, design, development,
manufacture and integration of advanced-technology systems, products
and services.
Contact: Craig Vanbebber, Senior Manager – Media & Trade Relations
972-603-1615 craig.vanbebber@lmco.com
For additional information on Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire
Control, visit our Web site: www.missilesandfirecontrol.com
