Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has successfully tested its prototype Joint Reduced Range Rocket (JR3), a new reusable training pod and affordable round designed to replace the U.S. Army’s current Low-Cost Reduced Range Practice Rocket.
The flight demonstration, held at White Sands Missile Range, marked the first launch of the JR3 training round. The test confirmed range, trajectory and reusability, with the team reloading a new rocket into the same tube immediately after firing.
This highlighted the pod’s ability to be reused in the field, offering more training rockets per pod while saving time and resources.
“Our new prototype training round offers a scalable, cost-effective solution built on mature rocket motor technology,” said Dave Griser, vice president of Precision Fires Rockets at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “With a pod capacity of more than 20 rockets, it meets the Army’s demand for increased training volume and affordability without sacrificing performance.”
The JR3 is designed for use with HIMARS and MLRS M270 launchers, enabling realistic live-fire training in a variety of environments and conditions. Its flexibility allows crews to conduct exercises both day and night across multiple facilities, even within constrained range limits.
Beyond training, the JR3 has potential applications in future initiatives such as Direct Support Fires Technology (DSFT), an Army-led programme focused on developing low-cost, mass-producible rockets compatible with HIMARS and M270 systems. “With our unique precision fires experience, advanced manufacturing and infrastructure, we’re positioned to offer scalable solutions in that space as well,” added Griser.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: Lockeed Martin
