Australia has shown a very rare video of the launch of an MGM-140 ATACMS tactical ballistic missile with a maximum launch range of 300 kilometres and a speed of 3,700 km/h

The Australian Department of Defence has released a video showing footage of the launch of an MGM-140 ATACMS ballistic missile. The launch was carried out during the Talisman Sabre 2023 exercise, in which the US and Australian armed forces are taking part.

Here's What We Know

ATACMS is an operational-tactical ballistic missile for the M142 HIMARS high-mobility artillery rocket system and the M270 MLRS multiple launch rocket system. It has a range of 160-300 kilometres. The launches took place at a military range where US and Australian servicemen gathered.

The ATACMS has a top speed of nearly 3,700km/h and its launch mass can range from 1,600kg to 2,300kg depending on configuration. The missile has a GPS and inertial navigation system for optimum accuracy. Moreover, the munition is capable of real-time trajectory correction during flight.

ATACMS combines high accuracy with long range and is a difficult target to intercept. This makes the ballistic missile desirable for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, which have both the M270 MLRS and M142 HIMARS.

Nevertheless, the US is in no hurry to transfer the MGM-140 to Ukraine just yet. Washington is limiting itself to the GMLRS precision munitions and the announcement of GLSDB deliveries with a maximum range of 80 kilometres and 150 kilometres respectively. The latter projectiles are expected to reach Ukraine by the end of 2023.

Source: @AustralianArmy