The US Army’s 25th Infantry Division is undergoing a significant transformation, as soldiers began this week to replace some of their cannons with High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers, according to division commander Maj. Gen. Marcus Evans.
Extending Operational Reach
„We are integrating long-range precision fires that increases the ability to extend our operational reach,” Evans told reporters. „It also provides us [with] a platform that we can better protect ourselves with because we can shoot and then we can rapidly displace or move to an area that affords us better protection.”
HIMARS Integration
The division is currently engaged in a six-week process of replacing eight 105mm and six 155mm howitzers with 16 HIMARS launchers as part of the broader Army transformation initiative (ATI). This change will result in a net reduction of 119 soldiers due to the smaller HIMARS formation footprint and is expected to produce some cost savings.
While the 25th Infantry Division is adding a new organic capability to its artillery brigade, it will still retain a single cannon battalion with two batteries of 105mm howitzers and one battery of M777 155mm howitzers.
Enhanced Mobility and Protection
„When you compare the HIMARS to a piece of towed artillery, a HIMARS can shoot and move all in one organic platform very rapidly,” Evans explained. „When you compare that to a towed artillery piece, it takes a little bit longer to be able to move, and we’re looking for the ability to quickly employ fires assets and then displace as quickly as possible to enable protection and survivability…on today’s battlefield.”
ATI and Artillery Mix
This move reflects the Army’s efforts to modernize its formations and equipment under the ATI and determine the optimal mix of artillery weapons within units. Both HIMARS and 155mm artillery have proven invaluable in the battlefields of Ukraine, driving high global demand for these systems.
