Lockheed Martin Showcases New Reusable Training Rocket

Lockheed Martin has tested a new prototype Joint Reduced Range Rocket (JR3) designed to replace the current Low-Cost Reduced Range Practice Rocket for the U.S. Army and international users.

The flight demonstration, held on Aug. 25 at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, marked the first launch of the JR3 training round. After firing, the team reloaded another rocket into the same tube, highlighting the system’s reusability in the field.

According to Lockheed Martin, the system enables more training rockets per pod, reducing time and logistical demands during exercises. With a pod capacity of more than 20 rockets, it meets the Army’s demand for increased training volume and affordability without sacrificing performance.

The JR3 rocket is compatible with both the HIMARS and MLRS M270 launchers, giving soldiers the ability to conduct live-fire practice on restricted ranges and in different conditions, day or night.

Lockheed Martin noted that the JR3 design could also be applied to future projects such as the U.S. Army’s Direct Support Fires Technology initiative, which seeks low-cost, mass-producible rockets.