Successful test for Lockheed's modernized TACMs

by Richard Tomkins Washington (UPI) May 23, 2017 UPI

Lockheed Martin reports its modernized Tactical Missile System missile has successfully completed a sixth long-range flight test.

The surface-to-surface TACMS missile flew about 149 miles to engage its target. The flight test at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico confirmed that the missile functions as designed and meets performance requirements of the U.S. Army's TACMS Service Life Extension Program, Lockheed Martin said..

"During this test, we demonstrated a successful proximity detonation of the TACMS missile, as well as confirmed numerous performance improvements to these rounds," said Scott Greene, vice president of Precision Fires & Combat Maneuver Systems at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "This sixth consecutive success further demonstrates that our customers can have full confidence that Modernized TACMS is going to perform reliably when called upon."

Lockheed said the missile used in the test was launched from a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System and was "hot-conditioned" -- the launcher was held in an environmental chamber before launch to simulate hot launch conditions.

The modernized TACMS features new guidance electronics and can engage a target without leaving behind unexploded ordnance.