DoD Procurement Chief Reports Increased GMLRS Production

The DoD is working with Lockheed Martin to increase the production capacity of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets for M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS).

Speaking to CBS News on Sept. 4, Dr. William LaPlante, Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, said GMLRS output capability was to “at least double”, although it is not gave no deadline.

Lockheed Martin chief operating officer Frank St John said the company currently produces about 7,500 rockets a year, but can go further.

“We have the capacity to produce 10,000 rockets per year” for the United States and export customers such as Ukraine, St John said. CBS Newsadding that Lockheed Martin is conducting analyzes to “potentially reach 12,000 to 14,000 rockets per year”.

LaPlante said an increased production rate can be sustained “as long as the demand is needed…We can keep the production lines open for 30 years.”

HIMARS has played a leading role in eastern Ukraine and the Kherson region as part of an ongoing offensive to retake land from invading Russian forces.

However, US lawmakers have expressed concern over dwindling national stockpiles of GMLRS, HIMARS and other weapon systems donated to Ukraine.