IRIA News

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The Australian Defense Ministry confirmed the arrival of the first batch of M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) from the United States, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to modernize and enhance its long-range strike capabilities.

The acquisition was made through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program and is a key component of Australia’s evolving defense strategy in the Indo-Pacific region.

The HIMARS units were transported by a Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster III strategic airlifter, with the systems being publicly unveiled on 24 March at the Avalon 2025 Airshow near Melbourne. This highly anticipated delivery is the first of two batches, as part of a total order of 42 HIMARS launchers intended to significantly upgrade the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) firepower and range.

According to Defense Industry Minister Pat Conroy, the HIMARS acquisition represents a substantial leap forward in military capability. “The entirety of Australia’s HIMARS program will enable accurate firepower and a more than ten-fold increase in striking range,” Conroy said.

He also highlighted that the program’s rollout is proceeding faster than initially planned, “This delivers on our commitment to accelerate the acquisition of HIMARS, which are now on track to be fully operational four years ahead of the schedule of the former Morrison-Dutton Government.”

In addition to the launchers, Australia is investing in the domestic production of GMLRS (Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System) munitions, beginning this year. This move is designed to reinforce national security supply chains, reduce dependence on external sources, and stimulate local industry.

“Equally crucial will be the munitions and support systems that sit behind HIMARS – and that’s why we’re manufacturing Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) missiles in Australia this year, to reinforce robust domestic supply chains that we control and create local jobs,” Conroy said.

Integration into Australian military

The HIMARS units will be integrated under the newly re-established 10th Fires Brigade, based in Adelaide. This artillery-focused command structure is part of a broader reorganization of the Australian Army in response to the 2023 Defense Strategic Review, which called for a modernized force capable of rapid deployment and high-intensity operations. The brigade will also oversee other long-range assets such as the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS).

“These changes to the Army are about responding to the recommendations of the Defence Strategic Review to maintain peace, security, and prosperity in our region,” explained Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles during planning discussions last year.

“Our Army has always played a vital role in the defense of our nation and will continue to do so as it adapts to the challenges of our times. These changes involve some hard decisions. But these decisions are necessary to build the Army Australia needs.”

Strategic implications

The strategic value of the HIMARS system lies in its mobility, precision, and extended range. Each launcher can fire a variety of guided munitions, offering flexibility in both offensive and defensive operations. Moreover, Australia is set to become the first international customer for the U.S.-developed Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), a new long-range missile compatible with HIMARS that promises even greater reach and precision.

The procurement is also part of broader defense cooperation between Australia and the United States, as both countries respond to growing strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific. A central component of this vision involves creating highly mobile, rapidly deployable forces capable of operating in dispersed and contested environments.

This concept of operations includes deploying HIMARS units using C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, enabling swift movement between launch sites. After firing, units can quickly relocate to avoid detection and counter-battery fire, a tactic known as “shoot and scoot.” This approach significantly increases survivability and allows for flexible, unpredictable targeting in real-time operations.

With regional tensions on the rise, particularly in areas such as the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, Australia is prioritizing deterrence through credible long-range strike options. The arrival of HIMARS, paired with domestic munitions production and structural reforms within the Army, sends a clear signal that Australia is taking proactive steps to defend its interests and support regional stability.

The HIMARS program reflects a broader strategic transformation within Australia’s military doctrine. By accelerating delivery timelines, investing in local defense industries, and deepening cooperation with key allies, Australia is laying the groundwork for a future-ready force capable of meeting the complex security demands of the Indo-Pacific.