by Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow The Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) program [https://warriormaven.com/land/army-acquires-early-operational-500km-breakthrough-precision-strike-missiles] is a main program of the Army's modernization efforts set to achieve a new milestone with the fielding of its baseline capability, known as Increment 1 (Inc 1). This new missile system, capable of being launched from both the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and the M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), is expected to reach targets up to 500 kilometers away, surpassing the range of the legacy Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) which PrSM is slated to replace [https://www.defensenews.com/land/2023/12/08/us-army-receives-first-long-range-precision-strike-missiles/]. The Army is also pursuing a series of enhancements to the baseline PrSM [https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/products/precision-strike-missile.html], including: - PrSM Inc 2, featuring a multimode seeker for striking maritime targets. - PrSM Inc 3, which will incorporate enhanced lethality payloads. - PrSM Inc 4, designed to extend the missile's range beyond 1,000 kilometers. PrSM Inc 2: Multimode Seeker for Maritime Targets The PrSM Inc 2 is a state-of-the-art missile system designed to address the evolving maritime threats. Its key feature is the integration of a multimode seeker, a sophisticated technology that allows the missile to accurately identify and strike maritime targets. This seeker operates using a combination of active radar homing and passive infrared homing, providing the missile with the ability to adapt to various target scenarios and environmental conditions. This makes the PrSM Inc 2 a formidable tool in naval warfare, capable of neutralizing enemy vessels with precision and efficiency. Attack Robots, Autonomous Weapons, Drones & the Future of AI Will Terminator Robots Kill Without Human Intervention? PrSM Inc 3: Enhanced Lethality Payloads The PrSM Inc 3 represents a significant leap forward in terms of lethality. It incorporates enhanced lethality payloads, which are designed to maximize the destructive potential of the missile. These payloads can include a variety of warheads, from high-explosive to submunition, allowing the missile to effectively engage a wide range of targets. The enhanced lethality of the PrSM Inc 3 ensures that it can neutralize even the most heavily fortified targets, making it a crucial asset on the modern battlefield. PrSM Inc 4: Extended Range Beyond 1,000 Kilometers The PrSM Inc 4 is designed with a focus on range extension. It is engineered to reach targets beyond 1,000 kilometers, a feat achieved through advancements in propulsion technology and aerodynamics. This extended range allows for greater operational flexibility, enabling forces to engage targets from safe standoff distances. The PrSM Inc 4’s range capabilities, combined with its precision guidance and powerful payloads, make it a highly effective long-range strike asset. In conclusion, the PrSM series, with its advanced features and capabilities, represents the cutting edge of modern missile technology. Each iteration brings with it significant advancements, ensuring that our armed forces are equipped with the tools they need to maintain a strategic edge in the ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare. However, the production of PrSM Inc 2 has been delayed to FY26 due to developmental challenges with the seeker technology. The Army is continuing integration efforts and anticipates demonstration flight testing to commence later in the year, with a production decision expected by the end of FY25. ERCA Program Cancellation In contrast to the progress of the PrSM, the Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA) program has faced a setback with the cancellation of the new artillery launcher. The ERCA program aimed to enhance the Paladin M109A7 self-propelled howitzer by equipping it with a longer 58-caliber gun tube, enabling it to fire rounds up to 70 kilometers. Despite achieving some success in testing, the program encountered technical challenges that led to its termination. The Army is now exploring alternative solutions to fulfill its need for extended-range artillery capabilities. This includes considering existing systems and potentially leveraging international technologies to meet the requirement for a long-range artillery platform. The Army's budget request for FY25 includes a significant increase in funding for the Abrams tank upgrade, indicating a shift towards a more comprehensive overhaul of the platform. Additionally, the Army is initiating a new air defense prototype, the Multi-Domain Artillery Cannon System (MDACS), which aims to provide integrated defense against a variety of threats, including cruise missiles and unmanned aircraft systems [https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/ausa/2023/10/09/armys-upcoming-artillery-strategy-has-a-big-menu-to-choose-from/]. OLAWALE ABAIRE is a researcher, writer and analyst who has written over 75 nonfiction books, He has master's degree from Adekunle Ajasin University, Nigeria. He also works as a web content writer with the International Lean Six Sigma Institute, UK
