BAE Systems and U.S. Army Successfully Test Scorpio‑XR Extended‑Range 155mm Artillery Projectile

BAE Systems and the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command – Armaments Center (DEVCOM AC) have successfully test-fired the Scorpio‑XR (XM1155‑SC), an extended-range, precision-guided 155mm artillery projectile, from a standard howitzer. The tests, which involved multiple rounds, not only met but significantly exceeded the test objectives, striking designated targets with high precision and confirming the projectile’s compatibility with NATO-standard 52-caliber 155mm howitzers.

The demonstration marks a key milestone in the U.S. Army’s long-range precision fires modernization effort, aiming to enhance the range, accuracy, and lethality of conventional tube artillery. The Scorpio‑XR is designed to provide a combination of extended range and precise targeting, allowing artillery units to engage high-value targets at safe stand-off distances while reducing reliance on separate fire-support assets.

During the tests, the rounds consistently guided to their targets, validating the projectile’s performance and integration with 155mm howitzers widely used among NATO allies. The Scorpio‑XR’s guidance system is optimized for terminal accuracy and is designed to function effectively in contested environments, including situations where GPS signals may be degraded or jammed. Analysts note that this makes it a versatile option for modern, networked battlefield conditions.

The projectile is also modular in its design, capable of supporting various warhead types depending on mission requirements. This flexibility allows it to be used for precise strikes against fortified positions, armored vehicles, or area targets. Its extended-range capability is expected to surpass many conventional guided 155mm rounds, potentially reaching distances beyond 70 kilometers when paired with long-barrel guns and optimized propellant charges.

Scorpio‑XR builds on years of development efforts for the XM1155 program, with prior tests refining its aerodynamics, control surfaces, and guidance technology. The recent live-fire demonstration underscores the maturity of the system and its readiness to move toward operational fielding, pending additional evaluations and production readiness assessments.

The successful tests also highlight the potential for allied interoperability, as Scorpio‑XR is compatible with the same 52-caliber 155mm artillery systems used across NATO. This capability could enable coalition forces to standardize their long-range precision fires, allowing for more coordinated and effective joint operations.

BAE Systems and Army officials described the test as a major achievement, emphasizing the projectile’s ability to provide precision, extended range, and multi-domain relevance for future artillery operations. With these successful demonstrations, Scorpio‑XR is positioned as a significant step forward in modernizing conventional artillery, bridging the capability gap between tube-launched rounds and long-range missile systems, and providing commanders with greater flexibility and firepower on the battlefield.

The successful integration of extended range, precision guidance, and compatibility with existing howitzers underscores Scorpio‑XR’s potential to enhance the lethality and survivability of artillery units in high-intensity, contested environments, marking a notable advancement in the Army’s pursuit of next-generation long-range precision fires.