United States create unmanned version of HIMARS jet system - autonomous version will receive 12 long-range missiles
The United States is working on an unmanned version of the HIMARS multiple launch rocket system.
What we know
The Aerospace and Missile Systems Research and Development Center of Excellence has created the Autonomous Multi-Domain Launcher, or simply AML, for this purpose. It is a modified version of the HIMARS multiple launch rocket system that can operate under remote control or in fully autonomous mode.
Engineers are now developing software and hardware that will allow the combat vehicle to perform complex maneuvers in high-risk environments without human involvement. Specialists intend to solve the problem of HIMARS movement in unfamiliar terrain, as well as to train the unmanned system to interact with infantry and other equipment under enemy fire.
For this purpose, the missile system will be equipped with a large number of special sensors. The developers note that the sensors used should not emit energy that could make the enemy detect HIMARS.
The AML tests are carried on the familiar FMTV M1140 truck base, but the final configuration will look different. The chassis will not have a cockpit and will be equipped with a larger launcher, designed to launch 12 missiles like the M270 MLRS. Recall that the container of conventional HIMARS can hold up to six GMLRS rockets or one ATACMS long-range missile.
The unmanned version of the HIMARS will be able to use long-range missiles, but the launch range has not yet been specified. However, it is worth recalling that the AML HIMARS Increment 2 with PrSM missiles was tested at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, in 2021.
Source: Defense Brief
Images: Radio Free Europe, Lockheed Martin
For those who want to know more:
- A spectacular video of the $3,600,000 launch of 24 missiles from four HIMARS multiple rocket launchers has been published
- Russian soldiers were so active in hiding from HIMARS that they accidentally blew up their own train of ammunition and equipment
- Ukrainian intelligence service will receive 78 DJI Matrice 300 RTK drones for ₴56,160,000 - 30 drones already in Ukraine
