29.06.2023, 11:50
Zitat:Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall to develop GMARS European rocket launcherhttps://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_...ncher.html
Paris, France, June 28, 2023 - An official representative from Lockheed Martin revealed to Defense News that Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall have formed a partnership to develop the GMARS, a European rocket launcher built upon Lockheed's High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS). The primary objective of this collaborative effort is to offer a contemporary alternative to Germany's outdated MARS 2 MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket System). [...]
Germany has been in talks with Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin to find a replacement for its MARS 2 MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket System) systems, some of which were donated to Ukraine, while the rest are aging. A memorandum of understanding was signed between the two companies in April to explore collaboration opportunities.
GMARS, the proposed system, would incorporate a Rheinmetall chassis and a Lockheed Martin loader component. It would resemble the HIMARS platform but with a larger chassis and a double loadout capability of two rocket pods. The Rheinmetall chassis, based on the HX 8x8 vehicle, will be manufactured in Vienna.
The HX 8x8 chassis, developed by Rheinmetall, is a key component of the technical specifications of the GMARS, as the Army Recognition Editorial Team previously reported it in an article published on June 2, 2021. Measuring approximately 12 meters in length, this chassis provides a robust and versatile platform for the rocket launcher system. It features advanced engineering and design elements that enable it to withstand challenging operational environments. The HX 8x8 chassis offers exceptional load-carrying capacity, allowing for the integration of various mission-specific modules and equipment. With its proven track record and extensive operational experience, the HX 8x8 chassis demonstrates its reliability and adaptability, making it an ideal choice for the GMARS rocket launcher system. [...]
The system is designed to be operated by a three-person crew. Upon contract signing, the initial batch of five GMARS systems could be delivered for testing and acceptance as early as 2025.
Schneemann