US Army Tests Precision Strike Missiles in Australia
On Friday, the Army conducted live-action tests of its precision strike missiles in the western part of Australia. This event represents a significant milestone for the region’s long-distance strike capabilities. The Precision Strike Missiles (PRSMs) are designed to have an unclassified range of 300 miles, making them capable of targeting moving objects both on land and at sea.
The test involved a US-made PRSM launched from a High Mobility Artillery System (HIMARS) vehicle, which belongs to the Australian Defence Force. This demonstration of strength is especially relevant given the current tensions in the Indo-Pacific area.
“This is just one of the key steps we are taking across the region to stop conflict, while ensuring that our soldiers have the highest capacity available,” said the Army Secretary, Dan Drisco, who observed the trial from the Mount Bundy training area. “The PRSM allows our forces to put our land and maritime areas at risk, pause the enemy, and increase deterrence.”
The PRSM is the newest addition to the US Army’s Long Range Precision Fire (LRPF) portfolio, which consists of advanced strike systems, including HIMARS launch missiles, mid-range platforms, and Dark Eagle hypervelocity missiles. HIMARS has proven effective in combat zones, like Ukraine, but adding PRSM significantly enhances its strategic capabilities by enabling it to evade counterattacks efficiently.
These mobile launchers can be deployed from US Navy aircraft like the C-17 and C-130, as well as from naval vessels, abilities that were recently tested in joint training exercises with maritime forces. Unlike the older 90-mile range system, which can launch six missiles per HIMARS, the PRSM can launch two missiles, allowing for a much greater reach.
When asked about the relevance of these missiles in preparing for potential conflict in the Indo-Pacific region, Drisco provided insights to reporters.
HIMARS’ deployment is ongoing across the US Indo-Pacific Command, with Hawaii’s 25th Infantry Division recently receiving 16 launchers. This indicates a significant step for light infantry tasked with engagements in challenging terrains like jungles and archipelagos. Officials are also considering the increase of munitions production in key allied nations.
The test illustrates how these capabilities might be utilized in case of conflicts stemming from a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, especially as the Pentagon faces pressure from Australia. Interestingly, Australia maintains a position of not allowing permanent foreign military bases but is working with the US to expand a more transient military presence on its soil. Recently, a large joint exercise in Sydney included 30,000 troops from 19 countries.
Additionally, discussions in Washington are ongoing regarding the potential sale of nuclear Virginia-class submarines to Australia under the AUKUS agreement.
The collaboration among the three nations led to the design of a new class of submarines, with Australian production expected to commence in the 2040s.
