50 Facts About ATACMS: The Army Tactical Missile System

The Army Tactical Missile System, or ATACMS, is a supersonic tactical ballistic missile designed to provide precision-strike capabilities for ground forces. Developed by the United States, it has played a crucial role in modern military operations. Let's dive into 50 key facts about this advanced weapon system.

Design and Development

Understanding the origins and design of ATACMS gives insight into its capabilities and purpose.

1. Design and Manufacturing: Initially designed by Ling-Temco-Vought (LTV), Lockheed Martin later took over through acquisitions.
2. Purpose: ATACMS provides precision-strike capabilities, allowing ground forces to engage high-value targets with minimal collateral damage.
3. Development Origins: The development began in the late 1970s to meet the need for a mobile and accurate tactical ballistic missile system.
4. Program Mergers: The development involved merging several programs, including the Corps Support Weapon System (CSWS) and the Assault Breaker program.
5. Designation Changes: Initially called the Joint Tactical Missile System (JTACMS), it was renamed ATACMS in 1984 due to USAF resistance to the air-launched concept.
6. Contract Award: In 1986, the U.S. Army awarded a contract to Martin Marietta (now Lockheed Martin) to develop ATACMS.
7. First Flight Test: The first flight test occurred in 1988, successfully hitting its target.

Technical Specifications

ATACMS boasts impressive technical specifications that make it a formidable weapon.

8. Guidance System: Combines GPS and INS technologies for accurate navigation and targeting.
9. Launch Platforms: Can be launched from the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) and the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS).
10. Missile Dimensions: Measures 13 feet (4.0 m) long and 24 inches (610 mm) in diameter.
11. Propulsion: Uses a solid propellant rocket motor.
12. Range Variants: The longest-range variants can fly up to 190 miles (300 km).
13. Warhead Types: Carries various warheads, including unitary and submunition warheads like the M74 APAM bomblets.
14. Submunition Characteristics: Each M74 submunition is about the size of a baseball, weighing 1.3 lb (0.59 kg), and covers a circular area of 677 feet (206 m) in diameter.
15. Targeting Capabilities: Can strike high-value targets such as enemy command centers, air defense systems, and infrastructure.
16. Speed: Reaches a top speed of approximately Mach 3, or around 3,700 km/h (2,300 miles per hour).
17. Altitude: Typically reaches an altitude of 50 to 65 km (30 to 40 miles) during flight.
18. Circular Error Probable (CEP): The exact CEP is classified, but open sources suggest around 10 meters or less for the Block IA variant.

Operational History

ATACMS has a rich operational history, proving its effectiveness in various conflicts.

19. Deployment History: First deployed during Operation Desert Storm in the early 1990s.
20. Cold War Origins: Developed to counter the Soviet Union’s long-range artillery and missile systems during the Cold War.
21. Operational Use: Not used during the Cold War but became valuable during Operation Desert Storm.
22. Precision Strikes: Enabled precision strikes and long-range targeting, crucial for the success of Operation Desert Storm.

Future Developments

The evolution of ATACMS continues with new advancements and replacements.

23. Replacement by PrSM: The Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) system is replacing ATACMS, integrating transformational technology.
24. PrSM Capabilities: PrSM doubles the loadout capability per pod and has a significantly greater range.
25. PrSM Range: Provides two rounds per launch pod, with maximum ranges exceeding 400 kilometers (nearly 250 miles).
26. Compatibility: Both missile systems are compatible with the MLRS M270A2 and HIMARS M-142 launchers.
27. Phased Transition: The phased transition of PrSM ensures continuity of mission capabilities and readiness.
28. Delivery Increments: PrSM delivery will be composed of four increments, ensuring a smooth transition.
29. Technological Advancements: PrSM incorporates advanced technologies, including the Northrop Grumman Corp. rocket motor.
30. Potential Range Extension: Technological advancements could extend the weapon’s range to as much as 1,000 kilometers (roughly 620 miles).

Variants and Specifications

Different variants of ATACMS offer unique capabilities and specifications.

31. ATACMS Block 1: Designed to attack high-value targets of rear-echelon forces such as airfields, SAM sites, and command groups.
32. M74 Submunitions: The large number of M74 submunitions saturates an enemy-held area, destroying both troops and equipment.
33. Warhead Characteristics: Each M74 submunition is a round ball with a tungsten fragmenting wall, steel casing, and incendiary pellets.
34. Area of Effect: The area of effect depends on the height at which the submunitions are released.
35. Launch Platforms for Block 1: Launched from a modified version of MLRS M270 AVMRL or a US Army HIMARS XM142 wheeled light vehicle.
36. Block 1 Specifications: Has a range of 165 km and employs a single 560 kg warhead equipped with 950 M74 submunitions.
37. Block 1A Specifications: Minimum range of 100 km, with a single 160 kg warhead. Maximum range depends on the warhead, with 300 km for submunition and 270 km for unitary.
38. Guidance System Improvements: The Block 1A uses an improved inertial guidance system combined with GPS.

Current Operational Status

ATACMS remains a vital component of the U.S. military's arsenal.

39. Operational Status: Has been operational since 1986 and remains in service.
40. Operational Use: Provides the warfighter with the ability to engage both point and area high-value targets with precision fires out to 300 kilometers.
41. Limitations: Limitations include range and volume of fire, which are insufficient to meet evolving operational requirements.
42. Precision Strike Capability: Capable of striking targets well beyond the range of existing Army cannons, rockets, and other missiles.
43. Guidance Package: Features an improved guidance package with GPS technology.
44. Warhead Details: Each missile carries a WDU18, 500-lb class blast fragmentation warhead.
45. Launch Platforms Compatibility: Fired from the HIMARS and MLRS M270 platforms.
46. Solid Rocket Motor: Uses a single-stage solid propellant motor for propulsion.
47. Length and Diameter: Measures 13 feet (4.0 m) long and 24 inches (610 mm) in diameter.
48. Launch Weight: The launch weight of the Block 1 is 1,673 kg, while the Block 1A is 1,321 kg.
49. Payload: The payload varies depending on the variant, typically including a single warhead ranging from 160 to 560 kg.
50. Operational Role: Plays a crucial role in providing fire support for ground forces, enabling them to engage high-value targets at extended ranges with precision and minimal collateral damage.

Final Thoughts on ATACMS

ATACMS, or the Army Tactical Missile System, stands out as a game-changer in modern warfare. Developed by Lockheed Martin, this supersonic tactical ballistic missile has been a cornerstone of U.S. military operations since the late 1980s. With a range of up to 190 miles and precision guidance systems combining GPS and INS technologies, ATACMS can strike high-value targets with pinpoint accuracy. Its versatility is evident in its compatibility with both the M270 MLRS and HIMARS launch platforms. The missile's various warheads, including unitary and submunition types, make it adaptable for different mission requirements. As the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) begins to replace ATACMS, the legacy of this formidable weapon system will continue to influence future military strategies. ATACMS has proven its worth on the battlefield, providing unmatched firepower and precision for ground forces.