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M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System

M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System

Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin
Category: Artillery & Indirect Fire
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Caliber & Firepower 227 mm
Maximum Effective Range 500 hp Diesel
Mobility / Platform Type 64 km/h
Fire Control & Targeting System Armored steel cab

Full Specifications

1. General Information

System Name	M270A2 MLRS
Manufacturer	Lockheed Martin
Country of Origin	United States
Type / Role	Multiple Launch Rocket System
Caliber	227 mm
Year Introduced	2023
In Service	Yes
Unit Cost	USD 4–6 Million
Crew Required	3 Personnel
Platform Type	Tracked Armored Vehicle
Power Source	Diesel Engine

2. Performance & Firepower

Maximum Effective Range	70–300 km depending on munition
Minimum Range	15 km
Rate of Fire (Sustained / Burst)	Full pod in under 60 seconds
Accuracy (CEP)	Under 10 m with guided rockets
Elevation Range	Variable
Traverse Range	360°
Recoil System	Launcher stabilization
Reload Time	5–10 minutes

3. Ammunition & Warhead Options

Compatible Ammunition	GMLRS, ER GMLRS, ATACMS
Caliber Standard	227 mm
Warhead Type	HE, unitary, submunition
Warhead Weight	90 kg class
Fuse Type	Programmable
Muzzle Velocity	Classified
Guidance	GPS and INS
Effective Burst Radius	Classified

4. Fire Control & Targeting Systems

Fire Control System	Digital Fire Control System
Aiming System	GPS and INS
Communication Link	Secure tactical radio
Night Operation	Yes
Automation Level	Semi automated
Targeting Assistance	Networked targeting

5. Launcher / Platform & Mobility

Platform Type	Tracked armored vehicle
Vehicle Model	Modified Bradley chassis
Mobility Range	480 km
Top Speed	64 km/h
Ground Clearance	450 mm
Setup / Emplacement Time	Under 2 minutes
Transportability	Air and rail transport

6. Protection & Survivability

Armor Level	STANAG Level 2
CBRN Protection	Integrated
Counter-Battery Radar Integration	Yes
Smoke Launcher System	Yes
Shoot-and-Scoot Capability	Yes
Signature Reduction	IR reduced

7. Command, Control & Networking

C2 System	US Army Artillery C2
Connectivity	Secure data links
Network Capability	Yes
Operation Mode	Networked fire missions
Compatible Systems	UAVs, radars, observers

8. Operational History

Primary Operators	United States, NATO allies
Combat Proven	Yes
Operational Deployment	Iraq, Europe
Conflict History	Gulf War, Ukraine support
Notable Feature	High volume precision fires

9. Dimensions & Weight

System Weight	25 tons
Barrel Length	Launch Tube Length: Approx. 4.0 meters
Vehicle Weight	25 tons
Dimensions (L×W×H)	Approx 6.9 × 3.2 × 2.6 m
Transport Configuration	Air and sea

10. Maintenance & Support

Maintenance Cycle	Annual
Field Servicing Time	Under 1 hour
Spare Parts Availability	High
Training Requirement	4 weeks
Support Package	OEM ILS

11. Economic / Procurement Data

Estimated unit cost	USD 4–6 Million
Cost per Round	USD 100,000 plus
Country Procurement Program	US Army
Export Status	ITAR Restricted
Manufacturer Website	ITAR Restricted

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Combat Effectiveness 8 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Technology 8 / 10
Firepower 8 / 10

PROS

Proven combat record
Long range precision strike capability
High payload capacity
Strong NATO interoperability
Improved crew protection

CONS

High upgrade and sustainment cost
Large logistical footprint
Limited organic air defense
Tracked mobility limits road speed
Dependence on satellite navigation

M270A2 MLRS Modernized Rocket Artillery System

The M270A2 is the latest upgrade of the proven Multiple Launch Rocket System used by the US Army and allied forces. Built to meet modern battlefield demands, the system focuses on longer range fires, faster targeting, and improved crew survivability. It plays a key role in U.S. long range precision strike doctrine and joint operations.

Originally developed during the Cold War, the M270 family has seen extensive combat use from the Gulf War to recent European and Middle East deployments. The A2 upgrade reflects lessons learned from recent conflicts, including Ukraine, where long range rocket artillery proved decisive.

Manufacturer and Role

The M270A2 is manufactured by Lockheed Martin, with the launcher platform originally developed by BAE Systems. It is designed to deliver deep fires against enemy command posts, air defenses, logistics hubs, and troop concentrations.

The system fires 227 mm guided and unguided rockets as well as the Army Tactical Missile System. It supports shoot and scoot tactics, allowing rapid relocation after firing to avoid counter battery fire.

Capabilities and Technology

The A2 upgrade includes a new Improved Armored Cab, modern digital fire control, and compatibility with next generation munitions such as the Precision Strike Missile. The launcher can fire two pods, each carrying six GMLRS rockets or one ATACMS missile.

Integrated GPS and inertial navigation improve accuracy, while networked fire control allows coordination with drones, forward observers, and joint force assets.

M270A2 Rocket Launcher Price

The M270A2 Rocket Launcher price in US defense procurement varies by upgrade scope. Modernization costs are estimated between USD 4 to 6 million per unit, excluding ammunition and support packages.

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