International Defense Leaders Converge to Explore Next-Generation Mobile Artillery Solutions

International Defense Leaders Converge to Explore Next-Generation Mobile Artillery Solutions

(IN BRIEF) Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin recently hosted an international summit in Europe as part of their Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System (GMARS) program. The event, attended by military leaders, industry experts, and defense professionals from 14 nations, focused on showcasing the GMARS launcher, which is based on the Rheinmetall HX3 vehicle and offers significant mobility, survivability, and versatility. Presentations, factory tours, and a keynote by LTG (R) Ben Hodges, former Commander of US Army Europe, highlighted the launcher’s features, long-range precision fires, and the integration potential with NATO systems such as HIMARS and M270. The summit also provided a networking platform for attendees to discuss operational challenges and requirements. Dr. Björn Bernhard and Paula Hartley, representing Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin respectively, underscored the value of the GMARS program in delivering innovative defense solutions, with a live firing demonstration scheduled for the coming summer.

(PRESS RELEASE) DÜSSELDORF, 1-Apr-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin, as collaborative partners in the Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System (GMARS) program, recently organized a summit in Europe targeting international customers. The event attracted military leaders, defense professionals, and industry experts from 14 different nations to explore the latest advancements in the two-pod launcher system and long-range precision fires. A highlight of the program is the GMARS launcher, which is built on the Rheinmetall HX3 vehicle platform, providing exceptional mobility, durability, and flexibility in modern combat scenarios.

At the summit, attendees were treated to detailed factory tours and comprehensive presentations that showcased the launcher’s features and the diverse range of munitions available, including Lockheed Martin’s precision-guided munitions. A keynote address was delivered by LTG (R) Ben Hodges, former Commander of US Army Europe, who provided valuable insights into the contemporary battlefield’s challenges and prospects.

Central to the discussions was the concept of interoperability. Participants explored how GMARS can effectively integrate with NATO systems, including HIMARS and M270, to offer a robust, flexible, and comprehensive long-range precision fire capability. In addition to the presentations, the event included a networking session, where military officials and industry experts had the opportunity to exchange ideas and address specific operational requirements.

Dr. Björn Bernhard, Head of Rheinmetall’s Vehicle Systems Division, expressed satisfaction with the summit’s outcome, emphasizing that the event offered European customers a unique platform to understand the GMARS launcher’s benefits and its potential to enhance their long-range firepower. Paula Hartley, Vice President and General Manager of Tactical Missiles at Lockheed Martin, reinforced this sentiment by highlighting Lockheed Martin’s commitment to innovative defense solutions and the program’s role in meeting evolving customer needs. Plans are underway for a live firing event this summer to further demonstrate GMARS’s capabilities.

About Rheinmetall

As an integrated technology group, the listed company Rheinmetall AG is a leading international systems supplier in the defence industry and at the same time a driver of forward-looking technological and industrial innovations in the civilian markets. With over 31,000 employees at 171 sites worldwide, Rheinmetall AG generated sales of €9.8 billion and an operating result of €1,478 million in 2024.

About Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready.

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SOURCE: Rheinmetall