Australia receives first pair of M142 HIMARS rocket artillery systems from US

 

The first paid of HIMARS launch systems arriving in Australia. Photo c/o Australia DoD.

The Australian Department of Defence (DOD) confirmed on 24 March 2025 that the Australian Defence Force (ADF) received the first pair of M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) launch vehicles from the United States.

The pair is part of a contract to deliver 42 launch units for the Australian Army under a A$1.6 billion (approx.. US$1 billion), which was accelerated and expanded following the country’s 2023 Defence Strategic Review.

Originally the Australian DOD ordered 20 units in 2022, with the first batch were scheduled to arrive in 2026. An additional 22 units were ordered in 2023 with a request for the delivery to be accelerated due to emerging threats in the region.

The M142 HIMARS have seen effective use by Ukrainian defenders against invading Russian forces, including conducting strikes behind Russian frontlines.

The introduction of the HIMARS to the Australian military will provide “game changing” precise long range strike capabilities with a range of up to 500 kilometers using the Precision Strike Missile, as well as tactical strikes using the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System(GMLRS) which has a range of up to 70 kilometers.

In addition, Australia will be investing in building a local production capability to manufacture HIMARS-compatible munitions and missiles.

The new HIMARS will be operated by the recently-established 10th Fires Brigade based in Adelaide in South Australia.

[1] Australian Department of Defence

[2] The Defense Post

[3] France 24