BAE Systems and the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Centre (DEVCOM AC) have successfully test-fired the company’s new Scorpio-XR extended-range artillery projectile from a 155mm howitzer, according to the company.
The tests, conducted with 155mm 52-calibre Joint Ballistics Memorandum of Understanding howitzers, reportedly saw several rounds exceed performance objectives by guiding accurately to and striking their targets.
BAE Systems said the results confirmed the projectile’s compatibility with existing NATO-standard artillery systems.
“We continue to push the boundaries of precision in long-range artillery systems and will continue to build on this success and explore the full potential of how this technology will impact the future of artillery systems,” said Jason Casciotti, programme director for Combat Systems Development at BAE Systems. “The successful demonstration of the Scorpio-XR rounds is a major achievement for the program, and we’re proud of the progress we’ve made.”
According to BAE Systems, the Scorpio-XR, previously designated the very easy to remember XM1155-SC, is designed to provide precision strike capability at ranges more than double those of current 155mm artillery munitions. The company stated that when paired with advanced sensor systems, the projectile will improve lethality and accuracy for division-level artillery in contested environments.
The recent demonstration marks a key milestone in the programme, which aims to advance guided-projectile technology and deliver long-range precision fires for the U.S. Army. BAE Systems said Scorpio-XR has previously guided to and engaged targets at record-setting distances from a range of artillery platforms, from 39-calibre to 58-calibre guns.
