General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems announced successful testing of LR-PGK kit, installed on XM1113 rocket-assisted shell. During live-fire testing conducted at Yuma Proving Ground, LR-PGK demonstrated precision target engagement capability at range over 50 km.
Despite 50 km range naturally being quite significant but entirely achievable for 155mm artillery systems, point is shot was fired from M109 Paladin SPH, which has barrel length of only 39 calibers. Meaning when firing from modern SPHs with 52-caliber barrel length, even greater firing range using XM1113 can quite be expected.
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Moreover, noted is LR-PGK kit is compatible with other shells, specifically with quite widespread M795 and M1128, which is coming as its replacement, as well as range of prospective shells currently in development.
"LR-PGK system has modular architecture ensuring capability for further characteristics development as technologies and operational requirements evolve. Although main attention is devoted to precision fire at long distances, system is also being developed for solving increasingly complex battlefield tasks.
LR-PGK demonstrated resistance to threats having operational significance, both in laboratory conditions and during live-fire testing, while General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems continues work on further improvements aimed at increasing system performance and adaptability," company reported.
At same time, Defense Express recalls initially LR-PGK development on competitive basis, besides General Dynamics, was also conducted by BAE Systems and Northrop Grumman, which currently produces M1156 PGK kit. But currently among developers in U.S. Army documents only General Dynamics appears.
Also worth noting time Pentagon allocates for achieving Full Materiel Release (FMR) stage, meaning stage at which LR-PGK will be considered ready for operation and serial production. As noted in U.S. Army Executive Office for Ammunition and Energy portfolio, this deadline is set at 2031 level.
Note LR-PGK target accuracy indicator is set at no more than 10 meters deviation. At same time, this must be achieved even under conditions when enemy jams satellite navigation system, for which L3 Harris is responsible, which must develop jam-resistant solution.
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