Tensions are high as Germany becomes a decisive player in the race to determine Europe’s preferred artillery rocket system, with a fierce competition between the Rheinmetall-Lockheed Martin team and the Elbit-KNDS collaboration. The U.S.-German defense partnership between Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall unveiled the Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System (GMARS) at the Eurosatory 2024 international defense exhibition in Paris, highlighting its potential to significantly boost NATO’s firepower.
The GMARS, developed jointly by Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin, aims to address the increasing demand for long-range rocket artillery. This system, based on Lockheed’s High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), is built on a larger HX 8×8 chassis, allowing it to house two rocket pods and thereby double the firepower available in a single mission. The GMARS features advanced “shoot and scoot” capabilities, enabling rapid repositioning after firing to evade countermeasures. Its integrated crane enhances operational readiness by eliminating the need for additional support vehicles.
GMARS boasts significant technical advancements over its predecessor, HIMARS, including an operational range of up to 434.96 miles (700 kilometers) and a top speed of 62.14 miles per hour (100 km/h). Its ability to operate in all weather conditions and the inclusion of a boom-and-hoist system for rapid emplacement and safe reloading distinguish GMARS from earlier models. Designed for unrestricted movement on standard roads and rail transport, GMARS operates with a minimal crew and offers optional cabin protection, maintaining its mobility and efficiency.
The system’s design ensures compatibility with NATO’s existing infrastructure, utilizing the MLRS Family of Munitions (MFOM) for enhanced range and precision. This compatibility is a significant selling point for potential European customers, as it promises seamless integration with current military assets.
At Eurosatory, Rheinmetall chairman Armin Papperger revealed ongoing discussions with “four or five potential European customers” for GMARS, though specific nations were not disclosed. This development comes amid Germany’s recent acquisition of three new HIMARS from the U.S. to support Ukraine, alongside the Pentagon’s delivery of additional HIMARS and ammunition as part of a $400 million aid package.
In contrast, Elbit and KNDS have been promoting their EuroPULS rocket artillery system, a Europeanized version of Elbit’s PULS system. While Elbit claims that PULS can fire the widely used GMLRS missile, Lockheed Martin has countered that their MLRS Family of Munitions cannot be integrated into the PULS system, thus limiting its utility for Germany.
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