The UK will receive 44 upgraded M270B2 MLRSs that will be capable of launching GMLRS-ER and PrSM missiles with a range of up to 500km

The US Department of Defence has signed a contract with Lockheed Martin to upgrade M270 MLRS multiple rocket launchers. Some of these are owned by the UK.

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Lockheed Martin is upgrading 44 M270B1 rocket systems to B2 level. It is worth noting that the M270B1 and B2 are similar to the US upgrades M270A1 and A2 respectively, but the British version of the combat vehicle has received reinforced armour to increase resistance to improvised explosive devices.

Following the upgrade, the British M270 MLRS will receive the advanced GMLRS-ER missile, which has a maximum launch range of 150 km. In comparison, the conventional GMLRS precision-guided missiles can hit targets at ranges of up to 80 km. The upgrade will also bring an increase in engine power from 500 to 600 horsepower.

But the main advantage of the upgrade to the M270B2 level is the ability to launch Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM). These are a replacement for the tactical ballistic missiles ATACMS. The PrSM in Increment 1 version will have a launch range of up to 500 km, a 67% increase over the ATACMS. With the introduction of Increment 4, the missile will be able to hit targets at a range of 1,000 km.

Source: Defence24