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First HIMARS Launch In Malaysia

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HELD in conjunction with Exercise Keris Strike, the US Army took part in another exercise with the Malaysian Army Royal Artillery Regiment. Dubbed Lembing Sakti, the exercise tests the effectiveness of the multiple launch rocket system (MLRS)/rocket artillery platforms in addition to its combat readiness.

The Oklahoma Army National Guard’s 45th Field Artillery Brigade’s M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launched rockets alongside the Brazilian-made Artillery Saturation Rocket System II (ASTROS II) used by their Malaysian counterparts.

It marks the first ever appearance by the HIMARS in Malaysia as well as its maiden live-firing in the country. As Keris Strike and Lembing Sakti scale up, this year’s exercises also drew in the participation of Japan and Thailand as observers, another momentous first for the occasion.

Earlier in mid-July, HIMARS launchers operated by Australia, Singapore and the US kicked off Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia by firing Precision Strike Missiles at Shoalwater Bay Training Area. Australian HIMARS operated in conjunction with other HIMARS launchers from the US Army and Singapore Army.

High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems from the Australian Army, the United States Army and the Singapore Army fire a salvo of rockets during a combined joint live fire exercise in Queensland, Australia during Exercise Talisman Sabre 25. The exercise is designed to enhance combat readiness and interoperability with allies and partners. (Photo courtesy of ADF CPL Michael Rogers)

The ADF received the first two HIMARS launchers earlier in March with 40 more units set to be delivered in the coming years. It is the first time Australia fired the HIMARS in country and the first combined live-firing by the three countries.-shp/adj/dl (Pix:ADF,ADJ)