The U.S. is close to developing a long-range missile capable of reaching St. Petersburg
The American company Lockheed Martin, in collaboration with the U.S. Army, has successfully completed a key phase in the development of the engine for the PrSM Increment 4 missile. According to Defense Express, the new system could significantly extend the strike range and enhance the capabilities of the U.S. missile forces.
It has been reported that critical ground tests were successfully conducted at the L3Harris facility. During the testing, engineers observed “seamless control transfer” from the initial solid-fuel stage to the direct-flow air-breathing engine.
According to official data, full-scale launches of the PrSM Inc. 4 aeroballistic missile are scheduled to begin this fall.
The main advantage of the design is its absolute versatility. The latest munition is designed so that it can be safely launched from the familiar M142 HIMARS systems already in service, as well as the tracked M270 systems.
“Thanks to its innovative engine, the missile will be able to strike targets at a range of over 1,000 km, although it was previously noted that the U.S. Department of Defense (the so-called “War Department”) had specified requirements for an even shorter range of 800 km,” the publication states.
According to analysts, the addition of such weapons to the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ arsenal would allow Ukrainian soldiers to strike very distant enemy rear bases with ballistic strikes. “Including, for example, St. Petersburg or other targets.”
However, as noted in the Defense Express article, these missiles are not expected to arrive in Ukraine in the coming years—Washington will first address its own shortages, as the technology is brand-new.
Meanwhile, Ukraine may soon begin testing the new European air defense system Freya, which is touted as a more affordable alternative to the American Patriot system.
Journalists at The Guardian report that the global shortage of interceptor missiles for Patriot systems creates additional opportunities for Russia to intensify its air attacks on Ukraine. Analysts warn that the shortage of these munitions could persist for several more years and affect not only Ukraine but also the security of U.S. allies.
