A GMLRS M31 round is fired from an M270A1 launcher operated by the US Army's 2nd Battalion, 4th Field Artillery Regiment. (US Army)
Bahrain's M270 Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS) is set to get a new lease of life under a proposed foreign military sale (FMS), the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced on 24 March.
Under the proposed deal, Bahrain has requested the upgrade of nine M270 MLRS to an M270A1 minimum configuration for USD178.98 million.
The upgrades will include the following: “Common Fire Control System (CFCS); Improved Launcher Mechanical System (ILMS); 600 [hp] engine and associated engine compartment modifications; Improved electronics distribution box (IEDB)” and other equipment, the announcement said.
Lockheed Martin will be the prime contractor for the proposed programme.
According to the announcement, the projected deal will bolster Bahrain's capability to protect itself against malign actors while also improving the interoperability with systems operated by US forces and other Gulf countries.
The primary purpose of upgrading the MLRS to CFCS is that it will enable compatibility with the forthcoming Lockheed Martin precision-strike missile and extended-range guided missile, while also improving the compatibility and co-ordination of its fire control.
The ILMS enhancements include an 83% reduction in the time taken to aim the system, a 38% reduction in mechanical reload time, and an expected 23% reduction in operations and support costs. The reliability of the ILMS is 45% more than the existing launcher system.
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