U.S. Army Tests Glide-Fired Artillery with General Atomics’ New Projectile

On October 13, 2025, General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) announced the successful validation of flight-critical functions for its Long Range Maneuvering Projectile (LRMP) when fired from an M777 155 mm howitzer at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground. The trial marks a step in moving 155 mm artillery from purely ballistic trajectories to winged, guided glide profiles that can extend range and improve accuracy in GPS-degraded or contested environments.

Successful Validation at Yuma

According to GA-EMS, the recent test series confirmed several important in-flight phases for the glide projectile: sabot separation, de-spin stabilization, wing deployment, and controlled descent and maneuvering. All these were achieved after the stresses of a conventional artillery launch. The tests used M231 propellant charges and provided data supporting the projectile’s predicted aerodynamic performance.

How the LRMP Works

The LRMP is a winged, guided projectile designed to achieve greater distances through aerodynamic lift instead of rocket propulsion. It includes fold-out wings and onboard guidance and control electronics that allow mid-course adjustments during flight. The round is designed to be compatible with existing artillery systems such as the M777, without modification.

According to General Atomics, the LRMP can potentially double or triple the range of current 155 mm rounds, depending on charge and firing angle. The aerodynamic design also enables stable flight and improved engagement of both stationary and moving targets.

Technical Specifications

• Caliber: 155 mm (compatible with M777 and similar artillery systems)

• Propulsion: Non-rocket, glide-based through aerodynamic lift

• Launch Charges: Works with existing propellant increments (tested with M231)

• Flight Features: Sabot separation, de-spin, wing deployment, and controlled glide

• Range Potential: Claimed 120 km+, depending on conditions and trajectory

• Guidance: Internal system capable of operating in GPS-limited environments (specifics not disclosed)

• Payload: Configurable warhead or sensor package options; details remain undisclosed

Although General Atomics has not released specific range results from the latest test, it maintains that the design can achieve significant range increases over conventional artillery shells.

Operational Relevance

The development of glide-capable 155 mm munitions supports the Army’s effort to extend the reach and precision of existing artillery systems. By combining long-range performance with compatibility for current howitzers, the LRMP could provide a cost-effective option between traditional artillery and rocket-assisted systems.

In the context of Long Range Precision Fires (LRPF) modernization, the ability to engage targets beyond 100 km could enhance the flexibility of units using the M777 or future self-propelled howitzers.

Challenges and Next Steps

While the Yuma test confirmed the LRMP’s basic flight mechanics, several points remain under evaluation:

• Operational range validation: Further testing is needed to confirm consistent accuracy at extended ranges.

• Guidance and navigation: The company has not detailed the exact sensors or seeker technology used.

• Production and logistics: Future decisions will depend on manufacturing cost, reliability, and integration with Army fire control systems.

General Atomics is expected to continue testing to assess range, accuracy, and system integration under realistic conditions.

Strategic

The Long Range Maneuvering Projectile reflects a gradual shift toward improving the precision and range of conventional artillery using existing infrastructure. By introducing glide technology to 155 mm munitions, the system may offer an incremental but important improvement in long-range fire capabilities.

If further trials confirm the system’s performance and cost-effectiveness, it could become part of the U.S. Army’s future artillery options for extended-range, guided munitions suited to modern operational environments.