Lockheed Martin Tests Providing In-flight Target Updates to Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System

Lockheed Martin's missile communication prototype has successfully provided in-flight target updates to a surrogate Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) for the very first time.

During a recent test in which a GMLRS-like trajectory was simulated, Lockheed Martin's Remote Interceptor Guidance – 360 (RIG-360) uplinker prototype delivered target updates to a data link under experimental evaluation for potential use with the MLRS Family of Munitions (MFOM).

The integration of MFOM and RIG-360 holds the promise of enabling long-range precision fires to receive real-time target updates, allowing them to accurately engage targets that have relocated or are in motion. The RIG-360 prototype represents an internally funded development initiative designed to showcase upcoming capabilities and technological possibilities.

Scott Arnold, the vice president of Integrated Air and Missile Defense at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, highlighted the significance of this test, noting its role in advancing the U.S. Army's Joint Fires vision. The proof-of-concept aims to empower the Army's deep-strike capabilities by enabling offensive fire against moving targets in contested environments, a critical capability that enhances agility within the U.S. Army's network and keeps customers ahead of evolving threats.

A Joint Fires flight test is scheduled for 2024 to validate the capabilities of in-flight target updates. The uplink capability demonstrated in this test is based on the RIG-360's capacity to provide comprehensive, 360-degree in-flight communication capabilities for Army Integrated Air and Missile Defense.

Lockheed Martin is presently operating under an engineering, manufacturing, and development (EMD) contract to further develop this concept into a tactical capability, encompassing the design, construction, testing, and fielding of RIG-360 for Army Integrated Air and Missile Defense. Once deployed, this capability will enhance missile performance, extending the Army's area of influence and supporting the best sensor and shooter capabilities within the Army's Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System (IBCS) architecture.