The US Army signs a large contract with Lockheed Martin for the production of HIMARS

In June 2024, Lockheed Martin signed two major contracts with the US Army worth a total of $2.8 billion for the supply of 311 M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers during FY 2028.

This order, placed under a contract modification procedure, provides for the delivery of 215 additional HIMARS launchers by 2028, according to the Army. Additionally, on May 8, the Army awarded Lockheed Martin an $861 million firm-fixed-price contract for 96 HIMARS launchers.

On June 3, the Army awarded Lockheed a $1 contract modification, according to the Pentagon. .9 billion for additional HIMARS systems with a completion date set for May 31, 2028.

With this contract modification, the government-approved maximum contract amount for fiscal years 2024-2028 is $2.79 billion, allowing for a total of 311 HIMARS. That total includes 96 systems from the May 8 contract and the remaining $1.93 billion, which allows for up to 215 additional systems from fiscal years 2025 to 2028.

"Current and planned contracts meet the requirements of American and international customers", — says the message of the US Army.

HIMARS is one of the weapons systems that the United States is sending to Ukraine as part of its security assistance programs. On June 7, the US Department of Defense announced a $225 million arms deal, including HIMARS munitions.

Lockheed Martin said the HIMARS volumes received under the latest contract will be based on future demand over the coming years. The delivery “expands the US Army's launcher fleet and will fulfill orders from global partners,” the company said.

It will be recalled that the M142 highly mobile artillery missile system (HIMARS) was developed by the United States and has been in operation since 1998. It is based on the standard army frame of the M1140 truck, which increases its mobility. The system can launch several types of munitions, including the guided missile salvo launch system (GMLRS) and the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), with a range of up to 300 kilometers depending on the type of munition. HIMARS carries either six missile packs or a single missile with rapid reload capability to maintain operational tempo in combat scenarios.

HIMARS stands out for its rapid deployment capabilities, as it can be quickly moved and configured for launch and then redeployed before it can become a target of enemy fire. It is compatible with C-130 and larger airlift aircraft, facilitating rapid redeployment in various operating environments. The precision targeting capabilities of the system, aided by its fire control system and GPS guidance, are aimed at minimizing collateral damage while effectively hitting targets.

The technology integrated into HIMARS includes an advanced fire control system and communications package that integrates with various military platforms for coordinated operations. Its GPS navigation system increases accuracy, thereby minimizing unintended damage and increasing impact effectiveness. In addition, its ability to interact with advanced surveillance and intelligence systems allows real-time targeting adjustments, which further increases operational efficiency.

For Ukraine, the implementation of HIMARS systems played a significant role in the war with Russia. These systems gave Ukrainian forces the ability to deliver long-range precision strikes against critical Russian positions and logistical networks, influencing the dynamics of hostilities. The accuracy and range of the American M142 HIMARS make it possible to destroy strategic enemy targets, which preserves civilian areas and reduces risks for Ukrainian forces. The inclusion of these systems was also an important aspect of international military support for Ukraine.