The US Army has awarded Lockheed Martin a $451-million contract to upgrade its M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS).
Lockheed’s MLRS overhaul will include new engines, improved armor cabs, and the Common Fire Control System, which is compatible with current and future MLRS munitions.
The upgrade will be performed for both domestic and international launchers.
“The modernization effort will add additional capability to the combat-proven launcher and ensure the M270-series launcher remains highly effective, reliable and interoperable with NATO forces for decades to come,” Lockheed Martin Precision Fires VP Jay Price said.
“The procurement will bring additional precision fires capability to our global partners,” he added.
The award is part of a 2019 agreement highlighting the necessary upgrades for the MLRS and subsequent contracts calling for the upgraded equipment to be mission-ready through 2050.
The M270 Launch System
The M270 MLRS is a surface-to-surface launcher that can fire munitions in less than one minute.
It can be crewed with only three members and is capable of hitting its targets at an effective range of 20 miles (32 kilometers).
If fitted with the MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System, it can reach a maximum firing range of 186 miles (300 kilometers).
Its operators include the UK and Bahrain, which is currently using the M270A1 variant for more munitions and computer electronics space.
