ATACMS TO PRSM
“The two major differences between the ATACMs and PrSM today are range and loadout quantities.”
While the ATACMS uses pods that contain a single missile with a maxi- mum range of roughly 300 kilometers (approximately 190 miles), PrSM provides two rounds per launch pod, with maxi- mum ranges exceeding 400 kilometers (nearly 250 miles). Both missile systems are compatible with the Multiple Launch Rocket System M270A2 and High Mobil- ity Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) M142 family of launchers.
Tis increase in loadout capacity allows for more munitions to be carried and launched from a single platform without the need for additional pods, or reloads, thereby enhancing the operational flex- ibility and firepower of the system and enabling more efficient and effective use of the missile system in various combat scenarios. Additionally, PrSM represents a quantum leap in precision strike capabil- ities. Te increased missile range provides greater standoff, which improves crew and launcher survivability.
IF IT AIN’T BROKE ATACMS was first deployed during Oper- ation Desert Storm, but its development origins actually date back to the Cold War era (1945-1989), when it was developed to counter the former Soviet Union’s arsenal of long-range artillery and missile systems. Tough never used by the Army during the Cold War period, its advanced tech- nology made it a highly valuable weapon during Operation Desert Storm, enabling the precision strikes, long-range targeting and significant firepower that were instru- mental in the success of the campaign.
Coined “Steel Rain” by Soldiers during Desert Storm, ATACMS replaced the Lance Missile System (1972-1992), a track-mounted system capable of deliver- ing nuclear warheads. It was designed to provide the Army with a versatile weapon system capable of delivering precision strikes against a variety of targets, includ- ing enemy air defenses, command and control centers, logistics facilities and troop concentrations. At the time—much like today—there was a significant emphasis on long-range precision strike capabilities to deter aggression and respond effectively in case of conflict.
LEVERAGING ATACMS
A U.S. Army Soldier prepares the crane for loading the ATACMS onto HIMARS in support of Talisman Sabre 2023, held in July at Williamson Airfield in Queensland, Australia. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Dickson, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)
Te need for a system like ATACMS arose from the recognition that traditional artil- lery systems had limitations in terms of range, accuracy and lethality when it came to striking targets deep within enemy territory. Te development of a missile system capable of delivering highly accu- rate strikes at extended ranges—made possible by advancements in missile tech- nology, guidance systems and propulsion systems—addressed this operational requirement and provided commanders with a new tool for engaging distant and high-value targets.
“Te ATACMS missile includes providing the warfighter with an ability to engage
140 Army AL&T Magazine Summer 2024
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