Lockheed Martin Successfully Tests Next-Gen Missile, Sets a Range Record

Lockheed Martin has been busy introducing its next-generation missile. The aerospace tech company reported successfully demonstrating its next-generation Extended-Range GMLRS (ER GMLRS) during a flight test conducted at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico.

It was fired from the US Army's HIMARS, a light multiple rocket launcher, and reached a record of 150 kilometers (93 miles).

Lockheed Martin Missile Nearly Double the Range

Jay Price, the vice president of Precision Fires at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said that the demonstration proved that ER GMLRS has nearly doubled the range of the current munition.

"This test demonstrates nearly double the range, while maintaining the precision GMLRS is known for. Lockheed Martin is committed to advancing this critical capability on a rapid timeline for our Army customer, and this test moves ER GMLRS one step closer to fielding," Price said in a press statement.

According to the company, the ER GMLRS successfully hit the criteria in its first 150-kilometer test for flight trajectory, including its extended range and accuracy from its deployment to impact.

Additionally, Lockheed Martin reported the successful integration of the product with HIMARS and scored an impressive overall missile performance. It is also worth noting that the rocket pod had to go through a Target Sequence (STS) testing before it was launched.

This test simulates the cumulative outcomes that ER GMLRS will achieve in the field between factory and launch for the life of the system. Lockheed Martin added that this tests the durability of the missile and its launch pod container.

In addition to building GMLRS unitary and alternative-warhead rockets for the US under an annual contract, Lockheed Martin has produced more than 60,000 GMLRS rounds.

These products and solutions were offered to the US Army, the US Marine Corps, and other customers throughout the world. It is also worth noting that these systems were created at Lockheed Martin's Precision Fires Center of Excellence in Camden, Arkansas.

Lockheed Martin Chosen by NASA

In related news, Lockheed Martin was among the chosen companies of NASA to develop new technologies and solutions for its ambitious Moon to Mars mission. The company is known for its defense and space tech and has had a history of creating products and systems for NASA's missions.

In particular, the company will develop in-space manufacturing technologies for thermoplastic composites, which is expected to be a cost-effective material that only requires less energy to produce in space compared to metal.

Lockheed Martin plans to test the technique in simulated space environments with the help of several NASA centers. To learn more about this story, click here.