Extended-Range GMLRS Surpasses 100km in Latest US Army Flight Test

Why It Matters

Doubling rocket range expands strike depth while preserving existing artillery platforms, enhancing operational flexibility and deterrence. The capability accelerates the Army’s precision‑fire modernization without costly force restructuring.

Key Takeaways

• ER GMLRS range reaches 150 km, double standard
• Test hit targets beyond 100 km using HIMARS
• Alternative warhead variant carries 200‑lb payload
• No new launch vehicles required for fielding
• Lockheed Martin contract up to $4.1B for production

Pulse Analysis

The emergence of extended‑range rockets reflects a broader shift toward deeper, more precise fires in modern warfare. Traditional GMLRS rockets have been limited to roughly 70‑80 km, constraining commanders when engaging time‑sensitive, high‑value targets deep behind enemy lines. By pushing the envelope to 150 km, the ER GMLRS fills a critical gap between conventional artillery and longer‑range missile systems, allowing forces to shape the battlefield from safer stand‑off distances while maintaining the rapid response that HIMARS and M270 platforms provide.

Technically, the ER GMLRS incorporates a refined propulsion package, enhanced maneuverability, and a sophisticated Safe and Arm Mechanism that optimises height‑of‑burst detonation for both unitary and alternative warhead configurations. The 200‑pound payload delivers either a blast‑fragmentation effect or a dual‑layer penetrator, expanding mission versatility across urban, fortified, and open‑terrain environments. Crucially, the system leverages existing launchers, meaning the Army can field the capability without procuring new vehicles or restructuring units, preserving logistics chains and training pipelines already in place.

Strategically, the successful test and the $4.1 billion production contract underscore a strong Army‑industry partnership aimed at rapid fielding. As peer competitors invest heavily in long‑range precision fires, the ER GMLRS offers a cost‑effective counterbalance, reinforcing deterrence and providing commanders with flexible, high‑precision options. Continued operational testing will refine integration, but the trajectory points toward a near‑term deployment that could reshape fire support doctrine and influence future procurement decisions across the joint force.

Extended-range GMLRS surpasses 100km in latest US Army flight test

US Army conducts successful flight test of the Extended‑Range Guided Multiple‑Launch Rocket System (ER GMLRS) on 30 January at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico.

The test engaged area targets at distances exceeding 100 km, according to a statement from the US Army.

The test used the Alternative Warhead (AW) variant of the ER GMLRS, which was launched from a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS). Performance metrics were reported as “meeting or exceeding expectations”.

The ER GMLRS extends the range capability to 150 km—doubling that of the standard GMLRS—and allows commanders to strike high‑value, time‑sensitive targets from increased distances using existing HIMARS and M270A2 platforms. This approach enables the US Army to increase strike options without procuring new launch vehicles or altering unit structures.

Portfolio Acquisition Executive Fires Lieutenant General Frank Lozano said:

“Extended Range GMLRS demonstrates how the Army and industry are working together to deliver meaningful capability at the pace of relevance. By building on a proven system and expanding range while maintaining precision, ER GMLRS gives commanders greater operational flexibility without introducing unnecessary complexity.”

Soldiers are scheduled to participate in further operational tests of the ER GMLRS Alternative Warhead prior to its fielding.

The ER GMLRS is designed as a GPS‑guided, all‑weather surface‑to‑surface rocket with a maximum range of 150 km. It features enhancements in manoeuvrability and attack‑trajectory options and incorporates a Safe and Arm Mechanism (SMPS) for optimising height‑of‑burst detonation for both Unitary and Alternative Warhead variants, each equipped with a 200‑pound‑class high‑explosive payload.

• The Unitary version creates blast fragmentation upon detonation.

• The Alternative Warhead releases two layers of pre‑formed penetrators.

Detonation options for the ER GMLRS include height‑of‑burst detonation above ground, point detonation upon impact, or delayed detonation after impact for the Unitary variant.

The ER GMLRS programme began in June 2017 as an engineering change proposal for both AW and Unitary rockets. The Department of Operational Test & Evaluation approved the corresponding Test and Evaluation Master Plan annex in August 2020.

The programme has faced delays resulting from design challenges, temporary facility closures due to COVID‑19 restrictions, and production‑line disruptions.

In October 2024, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control secured a contract worth up to $4.1 billion for production of extended‑range GMLRS rockets and associated hardware.