Why in news?
Discussions around supplying long‑range weapons to allied nations and reports of battlefield use have put the United States’ Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) back in the spotlight. Understanding its capabilities helps explain why countries seek this system.
Background
The ATACMS, designated MGM‑140/‑164/‑168, is a family of short‑range ballistic missiles developed by the United States Army to replace the MGM‑52 Lance. The first variant entered service in 1986 and was used during the 1991 Gulf War. The missiles are fired from Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) or High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) vehicles, giving them mobility and flexibility.
Specifications
- Range and warhead: Block 1 missiles have a range of about 165 km and carry a 560 kg warhead filled with 950 M74 sub‑munitions. The extended‑range Block 1A variant reaches 300 km and uses either sub‑munitions or a unitary high‑explosive warhead.
- Guidance: early models rely on inertial navigation, while later variants combine inertial guidance with Global Positioning System (GPS) to achieve an accuracy of 10–50 m circular error probable (CEP).
- Dimensions: each missile is about 3.98 m long and 0.61 m in diameter, weighing roughly 1.7 tonnes at launch.
- Targets: designed to destroy high‑value rear‑area targets such as airfields, air defence batteries, logistics hubs and command posts. The cluster‑munition variants disperse bomblets over a wide area.
- Exports and replacement: ATACMS has been supplied to U.S. allies including South Korea, Turkey and Romania. It is being phased out in favour of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), which will offer greater range and improved accuracy.
Significance
- Long‑range precision: provides ground forces with the ability to strike deep behind enemy lines without relying on air power.
- Deterrence value: the presence of ATACMS in theatre can deter adversaries from concentrating forces or infrastructure within its range.
- Modernisation driver: debates about supplying ATACMS highlight the increasing demand for precision fires and the need to balance escalation with defence requirements.
Conclusion
The Army Tactical Missile System has given the U.S. and its allies a robust long‑range strike option for decades. As newer systems emerge, understanding ATACMS’ capabilities remains essential for assessing regional security dynamics.
Source: FIRST POST