The United States military is currently fielding a new artillery weapon that has opened new fronts in ground tactics and indirect fire. The High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) offers an innovative blend of direct and indirect targeting by employing standard artillery protocol coupled with computerized acquisition technology.
Although the HIMARS system is technologically beyond its weapons class, it remains necessary to regard it intrinsically as an artillery piece. This weapon will significantly augment long-range targeting accuracy from the ground, however collateral damage resulting from its use is expected to be a concern.
HIMARS vs. Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS)
Used to great effect during Operation Desert Storm and the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, MLRS units proved effective in launching a heavy barrage of surface-to-surface rockets. With similar capabilities as the HIMARS, an MLRS operates a variety of sophisticated weaponry, uses computer tracking and targeting systems, and functions under a minimal crew of typically three personnel.
What makes the HIMARS unit unique is its unparalleled mobility. Where an MLRS can field a maximum of 12 rockets, HIMARS wields six on a 5-ton truck carriage designed to acquire and lock onto a target in 16 seconds, deliver a payload, and quickly retreat. Before the development of this weapon, quick-strike artillery was not available.
Basic armament for an HIMARS is a standard MLRS round. Beyond the older system, however, HIMARS can fire the Extended-Range MLRS Rocket (ER-MLRS), a guided variant (GMLRS), and most importantly, Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS). ATACMS are capable of delivering anti-personnel ordnance by way of “bomblets” or anti-materiel fire through interchangeable warheads. Succinctly, HIMARS-operable rounds are just as agile and adaptive to the mission as the weapon itself.
HIMARS Deployed
While on the surface the HIMARS technology appears unmatched, a couple of drawbacks inherent in the concept have emerged:
• The weapon is too agile and versatile for an artillery piece. For a rocket system predominately designed to launch ordnance from distances at large targets (troop formations, structures), the ability to move more freely forces a greater responsibility upon its operators to carefully select closer targets.
• Blurring direct and indirect fire can result in regrettable consequences similar to those experienced recently by US military units. For example, in June 2007, civilian casualties were incurred during two separate attacks as terrorists were targeted from moderate distances.
Adaptability and Effectiveness
The adaptability of the HIMARS technology, however, equips small units with a much-needed discreetness in the deliverance of mass surface-to-surface firepower while still allowing operators a chance to depart the launch site before being triangulated for return fire.
This new tactic and equipment will likely see greater use in the US military although enhanced training and developments introduced to minimize the aforementioned drawbacks are expected to accompany its expanded service. “Adaptability” will continue to be a key term when HIMARS is fielded, especially against a constantly evolving enemy threat and in light of recent civilian casualti
