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Daily News Analysis

Himars

4th May, 2024 Security

Himars

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Context:

  • Russia's government has published new footage claiming to show the targeting of two Ukrainian High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) shortly after the U.S. authorized a significant new chunk of military aid for Ukraine, including additional firepower.

Details:

  • To date, the U.S. has provided 39 HIMARS to Ukraine, plus ammunition for the systems.
  • Kyiv's forces have been using HIMARS since the summer of 2022.
  • S. lawmakers had approved new military aid worth tens of billions of dollars for its allies, including Ukraine.

High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS)

High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) is a highly mobile, multiple-launch rocket system developed by Lockheed Martin for the United States Army and Marine Corps.

Details of HIMARS missile system:

  • Design and Configuration: The HIMARS system is mounted on a wheeled chassis, providing high mobility and rapid deployment capabilities. It is based on the chassis of the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV), which enables it to operate in various terrain conditions.
  • Launch Platform: HIMARS carries a single six-pack of rockets or one MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missile on its launcher. The system can be quickly reloaded with additional rocket pods or missiles, allowing for sustained firepower.
  • Range and Payload: The rocket pods used with HIMARS typically contain six Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets. These rockets have a range of up to 70 kilometers (approximately 43 miles) and can carry various warhead options, including high-explosive, unitary, and cluster munitions.
  • Precision Guidance: HIMARS rockets are equipped with GPS-guided navigation systems and inertial measurement units, providing accurate targeting and precision strike capabilities. This allows for effective engagement of both fixed and moving targets with minimal collateral damage.
  • Operational Deployment: HIMARS has been deployed in various combat theaters, including Iraq and Afghanistan, where it has proven to be a valuable asset for providing fire support to ground forces and conducting precision strikes against enemy target.

Source:

https://www.newsweek.com/russia-himars-video-ukraine-1896512

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Consider the following statements about the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS):

1) It is a stationary missile system designed for precision strikes in urban environments.

2) It is a highly mobile, multiple-launch rocket system developed by Boeing for the United States Air Force.

3) They are mounted on a tracked chassis, providing stability and maneuverability in rugged terrains.

4) HIMARS carries a single four-pack of rockets or one MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missile on its launcher.

How many of the above statements are correct?

A. Only one

B.Only two

C.All three

D.None

Correct Answer: D)

Statement 1 is incorrect:

The High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) is highly mobile and designed for rapid deployment, making it suitable for various terrains, including urban environments. It is not a stationary system.

Statement 2  is incorrect:

 HIMARS was developed by Lockheed Martin, not Boeing, and it was primarily designed for the United States Army and Marine Corps, not the Air Force.

Statement 3  is incorrect:

HIMARS is mounted on a wheeled chassis, not a tracked one. The wheeled chassis provides the system with high mobility and rapid deployment capabilities, allowing it to operate effectively in various terrain conditions.

Statement 4 is incorrect:

HIMARS carries a single six-pack of rockets or one MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missile on its launcher, not a four-pack. The system can be quickly reloaded with additional rocket pods or missiles, allowing for sustained firepower.