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ATACMS Missile

ATACMS Missile

Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin
Category: Missiles & Precision Weapons
  • Guidance System GPS / INS
  • Maximum Speed Supersonic
  • Launch Compatibility M270 MLRS, M142 HIMARS
  • Warhead Technology High-Explosive, Cluster, Unitary

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name / Designation ATACMS AGM-140/148
Type / Role Tactical Ballistic Missile, Precision Strike
Country of Origin United States
Manufacturer Lockheed Martin
Service Entry / Year Introduced 1991
Operational Status Active

2. Performance & Range

Range 70–300 km
Speed Supersonic
Ceiling / Altitude Limit N/A
Accuracy (CEP) 10–50 meters
Warhead Type High-Explosive (HE), Cluster, Unitary

3. Guidance & Targeting

Guidance System GPS / Inertial Navigation System (INS)
Targeting Mode Fire-and-Forget
Launch Platform Compatibility M270 MLRS, M142 HIMARS
Seeker Type N/A

4. Physical Characteristics

Length 4.2 m
Diameter 0.61 m
Wingspan 0.63 m
Launch Weight 1,670 kg
Propulsion Solid-fuel Rocket

5. Warhead & Payload

Warhead Weight 230–500 kg
Explosive Type High-Explosive, Cluster, Unitary
Detonation Mechanism Impact, Delay, Proximity
Payload Options Conventional, Penetration Bomb

6. Operational Use & Capabilities

Operational Range Type Medium / Long
Deployment Platform Ground Launch (MLRS, HIMARS)
Target Types Vehicles, Fortifications, Air Defenses
Combat Proven Yes
Users / Operators USA, South Korea, Poland, Saudi Arabia

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

8
  • Technology 8 / 10
  • Performance 8 / 10
  • Maintenance Efficiency 8 / 10
  • Range & Endurance 8 / 10

PROS

  1. Long-range precision strike up to 300 km
  2. GPS/INS guidance ensures high accuracy
  3. Rapid launch readiness from MLRS/HIMARS
  4. Combat-proven in multiple operations
  5. Flexible warhead options for diverse targets

CONS

  1. High per-unit cost limits large-scale deployment
  2. Requires specialized launch platforms
  3. Limited payload compared to cruise missiles
  4. Vulnerable to advanced missile defense systems
  5. Logistics and maintenance complexity

ATACMS Tactical Ballistic Missile

The ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) represents one of the United States’ premier long-range precision strike weapons. Developed to extend the reach of conventional artillery and provide battlefield commanders with rapid, high-impact firepower, ATACMS has become a critical asset in modern U.S. and allied military operations.

Manufacturer & Origin

Produced by Lockheed Martin in the United States, ATACMS was first introduced in 1991 and remains in active service. It is designed for deployment from the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) and M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), allowing U.S. forces and allies to strike deep behind enemy lines with remarkable accuracy.

Capabilities & Technology

ATACMS combines advanced GPS and inertial navigation (INS) guidance for precision targeting, achieving circular error probable (CEP) as low as 10 meters depending on variant. With a range of up to 300 km and supersonic speeds, it is capable of engaging high-value targets, including command centers, air defenses, missile batteries, and logistical hubs.

Warhead & Operational Use

ATACMS can carry various warhead configurations, including high-explosive, cluster, and unitary payloads, designed to neutralize diverse threats. Its solid-fuel rocket propulsion ensures rapid launch readiness, while fire-and-forget targeting simplifies operational deployment. The missile has seen combat in multiple U.S.-led operations, proving its reliability and strategic value.

ATACMS Missile Price

ATACMS is a high-value tactical asset, with per-unit costs typically ranging between $1.5 million to $2 million, depending on variant and support package. Procurement generally includes system integration, training, and logistics support for launch platforms, making it a strategic investment for U.S. and allied forces seeking precision long-range strike capability.

FAQs

What is so special about ATACMS?

The ATACMS missile is special due to its long-range precision strike capability, supersonic speed, and compatibility with highly mobile launch platforms like MLRS and HIMARS. It allows commanders to engage high-value targets deep behind enemy lines with minimal exposure, making it a critical asset for U.S. and allied forces.

Why are ATACMS so hard to intercept?

ATACMS missiles are difficult to intercept because of their high speed (supersonic) and ballistic trajectory, combined with GPS/INS guidance for precision. Their rapid launch and small radar cross-section, along with unpredictable flight paths for certain variants, reduce the reaction time for enemy air defense systems.

What is the most advanced missile in the world?

While ATACMS is highly capable, some of the most advanced missiles globally include hypersonic glide vehicles (HGVs) and long-range cruise missiles, such as the U.S. LRHW, Russia’s Avangard, and China’s DF-ZF. These combine extreme speed, maneuverability, and advanced guidance for modern strategic strike missions.

What is the range of an ATACMS missile?

ATACMS has a range that varies by variant, typically 70 km to 300 km, enabling it to strike targets deep behind enemy lines. This makes it a strategic weapon for both tactical and operational-level missions.

ATACMS missile cost

The per-unit cost of an ATACMS missile ranges approximately $1.5 million to $2 million, depending on the variant and additional system support such as training, integration, and logistics. This cost reflects its advanced guidance, warhead options, and operational capabilities.

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