Lockheed Martin Receives $88 Million For Second HIMARS Production Order
DALLAS, TX, January 15th, 2004 -- Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] has received an $88.9 million contract for the second Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP II) purchase of the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) for the U.S. Army and Marine Corps. HIMARS, combat proven in Operation Iraqi Freedom, will support lighter, more mobile Future Forces.
During LRIP II the Army plans to purchase 25 HIMARS launchers, with the Marines purchasing one launcher. Current joint service acquisition plans call for procurement of more than 900 launchers, which can accommodate the entire family of Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) munitions, including the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missile and Guided MLRS rocket. The First Unit Equipped (FUE) is on schedule for early 2005.
"HIMARS has proven itself to be a valuable Future Force asset for our combat forces," said Ron Abbott, Lockheed Martin vice president of Tactical Missiles. "We remain focused on delivering HIMARS to our customers on time and on budget."
Because of its C-130 transportability, HIMARS can be deployed into areas previously inaccessible to larger launchers. It also incorporates the self-loading, autonomous features that have made MLRS the premier rocket artillery system in the world. HIMARS carries a single six-pack of MLRS rockets, or one ATACMS missile. Its fire control system, electronics and communications units are interchangeable with the existing MLRS M270A1 launcher, while the crew and training remain constant.
Additionally, HIMARS will be capable of launching the new Guided MLRS, the next major step in the evolution of the MLRS Family of Munitions, offering advanced capabilities, reduced logistics support and precision attack. Designed to enable troops to engage and defeat artillery, air defense concentrations, trucks, light armor and personnel carriers, as well as support troop and supply concentrations after launching, HIMARS can move away from the area at high speed before enemy forces locate the launch site.
Craig Vanbebber, 972-603-1615
e-mail craig.vanbebber@lmco.com
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