The United States State Department had granted approval in February for the potential sale of long-range missiles, rockets, and launchers to Poland, including a total of 18 HIMARS launchers. The package also encompassed M30A2 guided multiple launch rockets and missiles.
The HIMARS system consists of the M142, a five-ton chassis vehicle capable of carrying a launcher pod accommodating six rockets or a single MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS).
Excitement over the arrival of the HIMARS launchers was evident as Poland's Ministry of National Defense expressed their joy on Twitter, stating, "#HIMARS dla Polski! Mamy to!" which translates to "HIMARS for Poland! We've got it!"
@mblaszczak wicepremier, szef @MON_GOV_PL: Do #WojskoPolskie przyjmujemy dziś #HIMARS, sprzęt, który sprawdziła się w boju na, powstrzymując inwazję rosyjską. Bron trafi do @16Dywizja i jej zadaniem będzie odstraszanie agresora, wzmocnienie wojska na wschodniej flance #NATO. pic.twitter.com/llRZj9U77F
— TOP TVP INFO (@TOPTVPINFO) May 15, 2023
In addition to acquiring the HIMARS launchers, Poland recently concluded negotiations with South Korea to purchase nearly 300 K239 Chunmoo multiple-rocket launchers. These strategic moves signify Poland's commitment to bolster its military capabilities and replace existing equipment deployed to Ukraine during the ongoing conflict.
The Polish government has emphasized that its arms acquisitions are solely intended for deterrence and defense purposes. By reinforcing its military strength, Poland aims to ensure the security and stability of the region.
As Poland strengthens its defense capabilities with the induction of HIMARS and other advanced weaponry, it seeks to play an active role in maintaining peace and stability in the region, standing alongside other European nations and the United States in supporting Ukraine.
M142 HIMARS
The M142 HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) is a U.S. military system used for firing surface-to-surface artillery rockets. It is a lightweight, mobile launcher that can rapidly deploy and provide long-range precision firepower for the U.S. Army and Marine Corps.
The HIMARS is mounted on a 5-ton FMTV (Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles) truck chassis, which gives it high mobility and transportability. It consists of a launcher pod capable of carrying a single six-pack of rockets or one Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missile. The rocket pods or missiles are loaded onto the launcher and can be quickly reloaded when necessary.
The system uses the Global Positioning System (GPS) and an inertial navigation system to accurately guide and deliver its payload to the target. It can launch a variety of rockets, including the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) and the Extended Range Artillery Rocket (ERAR), which have ranges of up to 70 kilometers (43 miles) and 150 kilometers (93 miles), respectively.
