The Australian Department of Defence confirmed the arrival of the first M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) from the United States on 2 March. The delivery, part of a 2023 acquisition through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, marks a key step in bolstering Australia’s long-range strike capabilities.
The systems were transported via a Royal Australian Air Force Boeing C-17 Globemaster III and publicly displayed on 24 March at the Avalon 2025 Airshow near Melbourne. Australia has ordered a total of 42 HIMARS launchers, to be delivered in two batches.
As part of the agreement, Australia will establish domestic production capacity for Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) munitions. The country is also set to become the first international customer for the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), a next-generation, long-range missile compatible with HIMARS.
Strengthening Indo-Pacific Defense Posture
The procurement aligns with broader efforts to enhance Australia’s military mobility and interoperability with the U.S. The strategy includes developing rapidly deployable forces capable of operating across dispersed locations in the Indo-Pacific.
These units would leverage transport aircraft such as the C-130J Super Hercules for swift repositioning. After firing, the systems would relocate to avoid counter-fire—a tactic emphasizing survivability in contested environments.
Since proving its effectiveness in the Russo-Ukrainian War, HIMARS has attracted significant international interest. Several nations have moved to acquire the system:
Canada: Despite recent political tensions, Ottawa is finalizing a contract under its Long-Range Precision Strike project.
Croatia: Negotiations are underway for a potential $300 million deal, according to Croatian media.
Estonia: Approved for six systems in a $500 million package (July 2022).
Italy: Cleared to purchase 21 launchers in a $400 million deal (December 2023).
Latvia: Signed a $220 million contract for six systems, with deliveries starting in 2027.
Lithuania: Acquired eight launchers and 800+ missiles, including ATACMS, in a $495 million deal (December 2022).
Norway: Approved for 16 launchers in an August 2024 deal worth $580 million.
The surge in demand highlights HIMARS’ growing role in modern military strategies. Australia’s procurement reinforces its commitment to advanced defense capabilities amid evolving regional security challenges.