The UK is strengthening its land-based strike capability with its decision to participate in the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) programme, joining the US and Australia.
In a 7 July release, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) stated that it will invest £190m ($254m) from its wider £298bn Defence Investment Plan to procure the PrSM system.
This move will enhance the British Army’s ability to hit more distant targets and bolster the UK’s contribution to Nato deterrence, it said.
Currently manufactured by Lockheed Martin, the missile is capable of supersonic speeds and a stated range of up to 500km.
According to Lockheed Martin, PrSM is compatible with HIMARS family of launchers and the British Army’s newly upgraded M270A2 multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) launchers.
The first combat use of the PrSM took place earlier this year, when US forces deployed the missile in military operations targeting Iranian assets.
According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), the strike delivered “unrivalled deep strike capability”.
UK Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis said: “I am absolutely determined to give our soldiers the weapons they need as they defend our nation and Nato. This new investment into a precision strike missile will help to strengthen our Army and our security at this increasingly dangerous time. The US and Australia are vital defence partners, and I am working with Secretary Hegseth and Deputy Prime Minister Marles to deliver this programme alongside AUKUS.”
Deployment of the PrSM to the UK is anticipated in 2027, dependent on agreement with US and Australian partners.
The announcement comes after the latest Nato Defence Ministers’ meeting, at which further security cooperation and deterrence were discussed.
Dan Jarvis held talks with US Secretary of War Hegseth during the summit.
The MoD stated that adopting PrSM will complement other existing or planned systems, such as the Army’s One Way Effector drone and ground-launched cruise missile.
This approach aims to provide the British Army with a broad set of precision long-range strike options in line with Nato requirements.
Beyond direct military capability, UK involvement is projected to promote joint technological development and increased industrial workshare, benefitting all parties involved.
The programme also aligns with AUKUS Pillar 2 objectives around advanced capability collaboration.
The UK government reiterated its support for wider European long-range strike initiatives, including ongoing work with Germany through the Deep Precision Strike and European Long Range Strike Approach.
The PrSM’s introduction is described as complementary to these longer-term cooperative projects.
In March, Lockheed Martin also reported a successful initial flight test of the PrSM Increment 2, which marks a further development milestone for the missile system.
