By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow
The Greek Army is reportedly considering the acquisition of the US-made Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) in a strategic move to bolster its defense capabilities.
As a sophisticated replacement for the Army Tactical Missile System, the PrSM boasts an array of advanced features that promise to enhance the operational reach and impact of the Hellenic forces. With a sleek design and an extended range of over 400 kilometers (approximately 248 miles), it marks a significant upgrade from its predecessors. Moreover, its compatibility with both the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and the upgraded M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) underscores its versatility and adaptability to different platforms.
The decision to consider the PrSM is informed by recent global military engagements, notably the Ukraine conflict, where the utility of rocket artillery in neutralizing long-range targets was starkly demonstrated. These lessons underline the importance of having a robust and modern missile system that can deliver high precision strikes at extended ranges, thus keeping the army at a strategic advantage.
According to reports from Kathimerini, a well-regarded Greek news outlet, the Hellenic Army is not merely considering an acquisition but is also preparing to witness the PrSM’s capabilities firsthand. An army delegation is expected to travel to the United States soon, following an invitation to attend a live-fire exercise of HIMARS, where the PrSM will be showcased. This visit will likely play a crucial role in finalizing the decision regarding the missile’s integration into the Greek military’s arsenal.
However, the integration of the PrSM into the Hellenic Army’s operations is contingent upon the upgrade of its existing MLRS fleet. Currently, the army possesses 36 MLRS units, and there is a proposal to upgrade two-thirds of these to the A2 level, a project that is expected to cost around 1.1 billion euros ($1.18 billion). An alternative, more conservative approach would involve upgrading only one-third of the fleet while simultaneously procuring new missiles.
Former Army Futures Command Commander Gen. John Murray
From a strategic standpoint, the potential acquisition of the PrSM would significantly bolster Greece’s deterrence and defense capabilities, particularly in the context of increasing regional tensions and the evolving security landscape in the Eastern Mediterranean. The extended range and precision of the PrSM would provide the Hellenic Army with a much-needed edge in both deterrence and combat capabilities.
Furthermore, the economic implications of such an upgrade need to be meticulously evaluated. The cost of upgrading missile systems is substantial, and the decision between a full or partial upgrade of the MLRS fleet involves a complex trade-off between capability enhancements and budgetary constraints.
In conclusion, the Hellenic Army’s interest in the US Precision Strike Missile underscores a strategic pivot towards integrating more advanced military technology to ensure national security and regional stability. The forthcoming visit to the United States and the subsequent evaluations will be pivotal in determining the trajectory of Greece’s artillery capabilities. With its enhanced range, precision, and adaptability, the PrSM stands out as a potentially transformative addition to Greece’s military assets, promising a new era of tactical superiority if integrated successfully.
