General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems has completed a key demonstration of its Long-Range Precision Guidance Kit, showing the potential to give US Army 155mm artillery greater reach and accuracy. At Yuma Proving Ground, the LR-PGK guided XM1113 Rocket Assisted Projectiles to targets at ranges beyond 50 kilometres. The XM1113 was originally developed as an extended-range artillery projectile intended to take cannon-artillery engagements beyond the 40-kilometre threshold. Defence Express reported that the round was fired from an M109 Paladin, although GDOTS itself did not disclose the launch platform in its announcement. The company described the test as the first US demonstration of this type of long-range guidance-kit capability. The results are also relevant to the Army’s Mobile Tactical Cannon effort and could enhance the performance of older 39-caliber 155mm weapons such as the M777. The LR-PGK features a modular design and is intended to improve the precision and usable range of several compatible artillery projectiles, including XM1113, M1128, and future rocket-assisted rounds. Further trials are planned as GDOTS works to improve the system’s performance and flexibility. BAE Systems is pursuing a competing LR-PGK solution for 155mm artillery.
