Article Posted on : - May 19, 2011

Multiple Launch Rocket System M270 (MLRS). Photo: Lockheed Martin.

DALLAS, TEXAS (BNS): Lockheed Martin received a $45.3 million contract to upgrade 22 Finnish Army M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) launchers, incorporating the Universal Fire Control System and other enhancements. The upgrade enables the launchers to fire precision GPS-guided munitions for the first time.

"Finland has used MLRS products for four years, and the M270 launcher upgrade gives the Finnish Army a modernised fire control system and new artillery options with GPS-enabled precision munitions. This important upgrade will allow Finland to use the full range of MLRS precision munitions, including GMLRS Unitary and Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) Unitary," Scott Arnold, vice president for Precision Fires at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, was quoted as saying in the company news release.

The launcher and its munitions are designed to enable troops to engage and defeat artillery, air defense concentrations, trucks, light armour and personnel carriers, as well as support troop and supply lines. The enhanced MLRS M270 launcher can move away from the area at high speed following missile launch and can be transported to and from conflicts using NATO cargo aircraft.

The agreement takes advantage of current full-rate component production for US MLRS contracts. Finland joins other countries that have recognised the combat-proven precision advantages that the MLRS Family of Munitions delivers. The contract also includes training and component support.

This is Lockheed Martin's third international M270 launcher upgrade contract.