The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has taken delivery of the first two M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) as part of a foreign military sale with the US. It is the first batch of 42 systems that will be delivered in a deal worth USD 1 billion.
HIMARS represents the latest addition to the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) family. This advanced artillery rocket system is designed for high mobility and provides the firepower equivalent to that of traditional MLRS, but mounted on a wheeled chassis.
Developed in 1996 by Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control as part of an Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration (ACTD) program, HIMARS is engineered to target and neutralize artillery positions, air defense systems, trucks, light armored vehicles, and personnel carriers, while also offering support for troop and supply concentrations.
The system is capable of launching its munitions and swiftly relocating from the launch site before enemy forces can detect its position and launch a counterstrike.
The Austrialian Department of Defence stated that the acquisition of HIMARS is a game changer for the ADF, providing world-leading strike capability that will contribute to the security of Australia and the region.
Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Richard Marles MP said: “The Albanese Government has delivered on its promise to rapidly acquire long-range strike capability for the Australian Defence Force.
“We are making record investments to ensure the Australian Defence Force has the capability it needs, when it needs it to keep Australians safe while also supporting a future made in Australia.
“This is a proud moment for our Army, and for Australia.”
Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP stated: “This delivers on our commitment to accelerate the acquisition of HIMARS, which are now on track to be fully operational four years ahead of the schedule of the former Morrison-Dutton Government.”
“HIMARS is a world leading capability, delivering accurate firepower at long ranges, resulting in a more than ten-fold increase in Army’s striking range.”
“This is about equipping our ADF right now with state-of-the-art capabilities that enables it to operate effectively on land, sea and in the air to deter aggression and safeguard Australians.”
“Equally crucial will be the munitions and support systems that sit behind HIMARS – and that’s why we’re manufacturing Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) missiles in Australia this year, to reinforce robust domestic supply chains that we control and create local jobs.”
