The Australian government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the US to jointly develop and produce long-range precious attack missiles (PrSM), according to the Australian Ministry of Defence.
This is considered a strategic step forward to enhance the combat capabilities of the Australian Defense Forces (ADF), while strengthening the cooperation in the defense industry between the two countries.
PrSM is a new generation of precision-attacking missile developed by the US Army to replace the outdated ATACMS tactical missile system. The missile is capable of targeting high-value targets such as air defense systems, logistics centers and enemy command facilities, at a distance exceeding 500km.
With outstanding long-range attack capabilities, fast response speeds and high accuracy, PrSM is considered a leap forward in the combat capabilities of forces using mass-throwing rocket artillery systems. This type of missile can be launched from the M142 HIMARS and M270 launchers, providing high flexibility in deployment.
Compared to ATACMS and standard guided rocket types currently used by HIMARS, PrSM significantly expands its range, from the 300km of the old version to 500km in the first version.
Future upgraded versions are expected to reach 700km or more, creating the ability to attack targets located deep in the disputed area while still ensuring safety for the launcher.
PrSM development cooperation not only contributes to ADF's arsenal modernization, but also affirms Australia's increasingly important role in regional defense initiatives. The agreement also shows the strategic cohesion between the US and Australia in the context of continued complex global geopolitical fluctuations.
