General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems has announced a significant milestone in the realm of military technology, having successfully tested its Long Range Maneuvering Projectile (LRMP). This innovative guided artillery round is engineered to strike targets situated more than 100 kilometers (62 miles) away, bringing missile-like precision to traditional artillery systems.
Recent evaluations took place at the Yuma Proving Ground, where the LRMP was fired multiple times from an M777 howitzer. These trials were pivotal in validating essential functions of the projectile, including wing deployment, de-spin stabilization, and guided flight capabilities. The company reported that these tests confirm the missile’s ability to maintain controlled trajectories and high accuracy over extended distances.
General Atomics’ President Scott Forney emphasized the significance of these results, stating that they not only demonstrate the maturity of the LRMP technology but also pave the way for future extended-range tests as part of ongoing U.S. Navy and Army programs. Forney underscored the increasing necessity for affordable and mass-produced artillery systems in light of rising threats from near-peer adversaries and the challenges of contested environments. “LRMP meets that need while proving its ability to perform in extreme conditions and reshape long-range firepower,” he remarked.
The LRMP is characterized as a guided, winged 155mm artillery round capable of altering its flight path post-launch. This groundbreaking system is part of a wider U.S. initiative aimed at enhancing the range and precision of conventional artillery without the need for new launch platforms. General Atomics was commissioned to develop this technology in December 2024.
In parallel with General Atomics’ advancements, several other defense contractors are exploring similar high-tech artillery solutions. For instance, BAE Systems has been testing its Scorpio-XR precision artillery round, which is designed for comparable ranges and is intended to integrate seamlessly with U.S. Army howitzers. Additionally, American Rheinmetall Munitions is collaborating with the Army’s Extended Range Cannon Artillery program to provide advanced propellants and ammunition systems that will complement next-generation precision rounds.
The successful testing of the LRMP underscores a crucial step forward in military artillery capabilities, as nations seek to bolster their long-range firepower and maintain strategic advantages on modern battlefields.
