2005

Truck Chassis: Oshkosh Defense; Launcher System: Lockheed Martin Corporation

HIMARS was originally developed as a private venture by Lockheed Martin to replace the tracked M270/A1 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS).  Based on the M1092? 5 Ton Truck Chassis in the FMTV (Family of Medium Tactical Vehicle) series of US trucks, HIMARS is cheaper to produce/maintain and more deployable.  Due to its flexiblity of use and firepower it is part of the Rapid Deployment Force.

Fitted with both regular cab and armored configuration it can be used to launch any of the 227mm MLRS rocket munitions as well as the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) GPS guided ordnance. The M142 was continuously upgraded, but only to the A1R standard

To view the specifications and references common to ALL variants, please refer to the FMTV Series Index linked above.