Poland’s Defence Minister has announced plans to open a “Himars Academy”, a training facility dedicated to the rocket artillery system. This news was posted on the minister’s official Twitter account.
Poland has announced the purchase of HIMAR launchers from the United States. The system has earned a reputation for its effectiveness in Ukraine, where it is credited with assisting the Ukrainian Armed Forces in halting the Russian army’s advance and later forcing it to retreat.
“The first US-made HIMARS missile systems will reach Poland this year,” Mariusz Blaszczak said on Tuesday.
“We want to establish a Himars Academy where training on this type of rocket artillery system will take place.”
The European Rocket Artillery Summit currently taking place in Torun, Poland is discussing the proposed academy project. This was confirmed by an attendee of the summit.
In 2019, Poland placed an order for 20 HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems), including 18 combat and two training launchers, in a deal worth USD 414 million. Last May, the Polish Defence Ministry requested that Washington present an offer for 500 additional sets.
The US Administration has authorized the sale of 484 rocket launchers to Poland in February, with a contract valued up to $10 billion. Of the total, 18 launchers are based on US chassis, while the remaining are built on Polish-made chassis. The move is seen as a sign of the US commitment to the security of its NATO ally.
Lockheed Martin has announced that its M142 HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) is now available for purchase. This light multiple rocket launcher is capable of carrying up to six missiles. The company has also stated that the system is designed to provide increased mobility, accuracy and firepower.