The Australian Defence Force has made a significant advancement in its military capabilities by accepting its first M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) from the United States. This acquisition is part of a larger strategy aimed at enhancing the country’s long-range strike options in response to both current and anticipated threats. The total investment of 1.6 billion Australian dollars (approximately 1 billion US dollars) includes plans to procure up to 42 HIMARS units.
Further bolstering this initiative, the Australian government is set to commence domestic production of HIMARS missiles later this year. Among the types of missiles in focus are the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS), which boasts a range of over 70 kilometers (44 miles), and the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), capable of reaching distances of up to 499 kilometers (310 miles).
Pat Conroy, the defense industry minister, emphasized the immense capabilities that the HIMARS program will provide to the Australian military, promising “more than a ten-fold increase” in striking range versus previous artillery systems. He also noted that the current administration is on course to achieve full operational status for the HIMARS four years ahead of the timeline set by the previous government led by Morrison and Dutton.
In addition to the HIMARS fleet, the establishment of the Australian Army’s 10th Fires Brigade has been announced in Adelaide, responsible for overseeing the integration and deployment of the new artillery systems. This unit, with a historical lineage tracing back to the World Wars, aims to manage not only the HIMARS but also the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS).
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles underscored the significance of these changes in the context of the Defence Strategic Review, which aims to ensure peace, security, and prosperity within the region. He stated that the Army has always played a crucial role in national defense and that these updates are essential to adapt to contemporary challenges. While acknowledging the tough decisions that come with restructuring the military, he affirmed that these choices are vital for building a more effective and modern Australian Army.
The incorporation of HIMARS represents a major step in strengthening Australia’s defense capabilities, and with the upcoming local production of missiles, the government aims not only to enhance military readiness but also support local employment and supply chain stability.
