Article Posted on : - Dec 15, 2010

The Integration software of the upgraded M20B1 UK launcher fires its first GMLRS rocket at the White Sand Missile Range in New Mexico. A Lockheed Martin photo

DALLAS, TEXAS (BNS): Lockheed Martin has successfully launched a Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System plus (GMLRS+) rocket recently in a test at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico.

The GMLRS+ rocket, which is equipped with a Semi-Active Laser (SAL) seeker, was fired from the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher.

The rocket flew approximately 40 kilometers downrange, acquired the laser designated target and diverted over 150 meters to the target, Lockheed said.

Primary objectives of the flight test were to demonstrate target acquisition and the ability to divert the missile to a laser-designated target; obtain technical data to support verification of the performance of the GMLRS+ rocket; and to validate seeker, rocket and launcher system software.

Preliminary data indicate all test objectives were achieved. Additional launches of the improved GMLRS+ rocket are scheduled for 2011, it said.

GMLRS is the world’s premier long-range precision artillery rocket designed specifically for destroying high-priority targets at ranges up to 70 kilometers.

It is able to operate in all climate and light conditions while remaining beyond the range of most conventional weapons.

Each GMLRS missile is packaged in a MLRS launch pod and is fired from the MLRS Family of Launchers.