U.S. Army gives Milestone C approval for Lockheed Martin’s extended‑range GMLRS rocket
Lockheed Martin announced that the U.S. Army has granted Milestone C approval, allowing the company to move the Extended‑Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (ER GMLRS) into production and fielding. The rocket, which can reach up to 150 km, completed two operational tests in September and October using both Alternative and Unitary warhead variants. The system is compatible with existing HIMARS and M270 launchers, and the company will scale manufacturing and supply chains following the approval.
Why it matters
The start of production creates a new revenue stream for Lockheed Martin as the Army and allied forces procure the extended‑range rockets. Scaling manufacturing may also boost the company’s precision‑fires portfolio sales in the coming fiscal years.
Key facts
- 1The Army granted Milestone C approval, signaling readiness for production and deployment. news.lockheedmartin.com
- 2ER GMLRS can engage targets at ranges of up to 150 kilometers. news.lockheedmartin.com
- 3Operational testing of both Alternative Warhead and Unitary Warhead variants was completed in September and October. defence-industry.eu
- 4The rocket is compatible with HIMARS and M270 launchers. news.lockheedmartin.com
- 5Sabrina Barnes, vice president of Lockheed Martin Precision Fires Rockets, highlighted the value of added range within the existing launcher architecture. news.lockheedmartin.com
- 6Lockheed Martin will scale manufacturing after receiving a $3 billion contract in June 2026 for GMLRS production, including the extended‑range version. army-technology.com
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 3 of 3 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.