ATACMS TO PRSM


“The limitations of ATACMS include range and volume of fire, which are insufficient to meet evolving operational requirements.”


AT FIRST LANCE


Employees for Engineering Research and Consulting Inc., a defense contractor working at Anniston Munitions Center with the Redstone Test Center, prepare a Lance missile for demilitarization. The Lance Missile System was replaced by ATACMS. (Photo by Jennifer Bacchus, Anniston Army Depot)


“PrSM is … designed to neutralize, suppress and destroy critical and time- sensitive area and point targets at ranges greater than 400 kilometers,” Ames said. “It is a key enabler for the Army’s long-range precision fires modernization priority. It doubles the magazine capac- ity and extends range by 50 percent,” he said, enabling the Army to engage a wider array of targets while operating from safer distances. Te system “aims to provide joint force commanders with an iterative, long-range precision strike capability that facilitates point, moving maritime and relocatable target engagements at ranges exceeding 400 kilometers.”


With improved range, accuracy and lethal- ity compared with ATACMS, PrSM incorporates advanced technologies to


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improve its performance against various targets and enemy air defenses.


PrSM leverages advancements in missile technology, guidance systems and propul- sion to deliver enhanced performance compared to legacy systems


like the


ATACMS. Tese technological advance- ments contribute to improved operational effectiveness and efficiency on the battle- field. “Te benefit to the Soldier is derived by increasing the volume of fire at extended ranges,” Ames said.


PrSM’s capabilities are enabled by the Northrop Grumman Corp. rocket motor. According to a Northrop Grumman press release, the motor “incorporates the latest high-performance solid propulsion tech- nologies as well as enhanced Soldier safety


features.” Technological advancements, including the potential application of ramjet technology—a variant of airbreath- ing jet engine that uses the engine’s forward motion to compress incoming air instead of a rotary compressor—could extend the weapon’s range to as much as 1,000 kilometers (roughly 620 miles).


As the PrSM enters service, it will gradu- ally replace the ATACMS in the Army's inventory. Te phased transition allows for the integration of the new missile system into existing force structures while ensur- ing continuity of mission capabilities and readiness. Delivery will be composed of four increments.


Each increment represents a step forward in enhancing the missile’s capabilities,


Army AL&T Magazine


Summer 2024


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