HIGH MOBILITY ARTILLERY
ROCKET SYSTEMS (HIMARS) - DEFENCE AND SECURITY
News: Russian Video Appears to Show
Two HIMARS Launchers Destroyed in Strike
What's in the news?
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Recently, the Russian government released new
footage purportedly demonstrating the targeting of two Ukrainian High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) shortly
after the United States authorized a substantial increase in military aid for
Ukraine.
High Mobility Artillery
Rocket Systems (HIMARS):
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HIMARS is a lightweight,
multiple rocket launcher system designed to engage various targets,
including artillery, air defense concentrations, vehicles, and personnel
carriers.
Manufacturer:
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The system is manufactured by Lockheed Martin
Corporation, a prominent US-based
security and aerospace company.
Features of HIMARS:
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It is mounted on a 5-ton Family of Medium Tactical
Vehicles (FMTV), making it
air-transportable and highly mobile.
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HIMARS can carry either a launcher pod containing
six rockets or one MGM-140 Army Tactical
Missile System (ATACMS) with a range of 300 kilometers (186 miles).
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With a rapid preparation time of less than 20
seconds, HIMARS can fire a full launcher load of six rockets within 45 seconds.
●
After firing, the system swiftly moves away from
the launch site at high speed to evade detection by enemy forces.
Protection and Safety
Measures:
● HIMARS is equipped with the Increased Crew Protection cabin, designed to safeguard the three-man operating crew from plume gases, rocket launch debris, and small arms fire.