The UK Government has announced plans to join the
Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) programme, investing £190 million in a move designed to significantly enhance the British Army’s long-range strike capability and strengthen the UK’s contribution to NATO deterrence.
The procurement, funded through the Government’s £298 billion Defence Investment Plan, will provide the Army with a proven supersonic ballistic missile capable of striking targets at ranges of up to 500km. The new capability is expected to transform the Army’s ability to identify and destroy enemy systems, logistics hubs and supply lines before they can threaten NATO forces or allied territory.
PrSM will be integrated with the Army’s upgraded M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) launchers, removing the need for additional vehicle modifications and enabling a faster introduction into service. The missile, manufactured by
Lockheed Martin, is already in production and is designed to engage high-value stationary targets at extended ranges.
The investment marks a significant step in the development of the Army’s deep precision strike capability. PrSM will complement other emerging capabilities, including the Army’s One Way Effector drone programme and future ground-launched cruise missile systems, creating a broader portfolio of long-range strike options.
Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis said the acquisition reflected the Government’s commitment to ensuring British forces are equipped to meet growing security challenges.
“I am absolutely determined to give our soldiers the weapons they need as they defend our nation and NATO,” he said. “This new investment into a precision strike missile will help to strengthen our Army and our security at this increasingly dangerous time.”
The programme is currently a collaborative effort between the United States and Australia, with the UK seeking to join as a partner nation. Subject to agreements with both countries, initial missile deliveries could begin in 2027.
The announcement follows discussions between NATO defence ministers focused on enhancing cooperation and deterrence, during which Mr Jarvis met with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. The UK Government said participation in the programme would deliver benefits beyond military capability, including opportunities for British industry to contribute to future missile development and production activities.
Mr Jarvis highlighted the importance of international collaboration, stating: “The US and Australia are vital defence partners, and I am working with Secretary Hegseth and Deputy Prime Minister Marles to deliver this programme alongside AUKUS.”
Ministers also said the programme is expected to support jobs in the UK through industrial participation and workshare opportunities, while aligning closely with the advanced technology objectives of AUKUS Pillar 2.
The Government stressed that joining the PrSM programme does not replace longer-term European defence initiatives. The UK remains committed to collaborative projects such as the Deep Precision Strike programme and the European Long Range Strike Approach with partners including Germany.
Instead, officials describe PrSM as a complementary capability that can be fielded sooner, enabling the Army to rapidly expand its long-range strike options while broader multinational programmes continue to develop.
Pic credit:Cpl Jamie Peters RLC/MOD