The capability to strike targets up to 120 kilometers away, even without GPS assistance, was demonstrated by a newly tested artillery round at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona.
In August, General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems launched its Long Range Maneuvering Projectile (LRMP) from an M777 howitzer using M231 powder charges, as confirmed by the company on Monday.
Designed to enhance the range and accuracy of 155mm artillery systems, the LRMP is a cutting-edge munition. This winged, precision-guided projectile is notable for its high maneuverability and ability to execute controlled descents to accurately engage both stationary and moving targets.
“This milestone reflects our commitment to delivering disruptive technologies for precision artillery,” Scott Forney, president of General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems, said in a company release.
The LRMP’s development comes in response to the growing threats from near-peer adversaries and the need for effective artillery in complicated environments. “As the U.S. faces rising threats from near-peer adversaries and increasingly contested environments, affordable, mass-produced artillery is critical,” Forney stated. “LRMP meets that need while proving its ability to perform in extreme conditions and reshape long-range firepower.”
Versatility is a hallmark of the LRMP, which can be deployed across all existing U.S. military artillery platforms. In December 2024, the U.S. Navy awarded a contract to further the LRMP’s development for maritime applications.
