PrSM Increment 2 anti-ship missiles will become a threat to Chinese ships off Taiwan

One of the key elements of the modernization of the M142 HIMARS and M270 MLRS launchers in the coming years will be the integration of a new generation of anti-ship operational and tactical ballistic missiles — Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) Increment 2. These missiles will be equipped with an active radar homing head (seeker) and will be able to hit naval targets at a range of more than 500 km.

This development of ground-based missile systems significantly expands the capabilities of US allies in the Western Pacific. In the event of an escalation of tensions, PrSM Increment 2 missiles could pose a serious threat to surface ships of the Chinese Navy, especially in the area of naval bases in Fujian Province and on routes leading to Taiwan. The ability to quickly transfer mobile launchers to the coast makes them elusive and highly maneuverable platforms for attacking naval targets.

In response to such a threat, the Chinese Navy plans to deploy its advanced Type 052D class destroyers equipped with fire control and air defense systems. These ships carry HHQ-9 naval anti-aircraft missile systems and are equipped with powerful multifunctional active phased array radar (AFAR) type 346A (also known as "Dragon Eye"). The radars operate in the S- and X-bands and have a high detection range: up to 420 km for targets with an effective reflective surface (EOP) of 3 m2 and up to 100 km for low—visibility targets with an EOP of 0.01 m2.

Type 052D destroyers can be used to cover amphibious and transport ships, providing them with protection from high-precision weapons, including short-range ballistic missiles and cruise missiles. Their role will become especially important in scenarios involving possible operations near Taiwan, where air and sea control will determine the success of any mission.

GMARS vs HIMARS: The USA and Germany have tested a new super-powerful MLRS with dual ammunition

 

The American-German project of the future, the GMARS (Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System) multiple launch rocket System, has successfully completed its first combat launches, which are close to real combat conditions. The tests took place at the famous White Sands test site in New Mexico, where the system launched two GMLRS medium-range guided missiles. This milestone was an important milestone: it confirmed the combat readiness, accuracy and reliability of the new artillery platform developed jointly by Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall.

GMARS is not just a copy, but a direct competitor and an improved version of HIMARS, which has already proven itself in its area. The main advantage is the Rheinmetall HX reinforced 8x8 chassis, capable of withstanding up to 40 tons. Thanks to this, GMARS can carry two launch modules instead of one, which doubles the ammunition and dramatically increases firepower in one trip.

What can trigger GMARS?  

— 12 GMLRS missiles (range up to 150 km),

— 4 tactical PrSM missiles (up to 400 km),

— or 2 ATACMS ballistic missiles (up to 310 km).  

This versatility makes the system ideal for NATO: it is compatible with the main types of munitions used by the United States and its allies, which simplifies logistics and makes it easy to integrate GMARS into joint operations.

But the innovations don't stop there. GMARS is already being considered as a platform for future cruise missiles, including a modified ground—based version of the JASSM, which will turn it into a true multi-purpose strike system. Its high mobility, survivability and precision make it ideal for tasks:  

— striking deep into the defense,

— air defense suppression,  

— and counter-battery warfare.

The exact cost has not yet been disclosed, but analysts estimate it at $ 15 million — more expensive than HIMARS, but with much greater capabilities. Serial production and export are in the near future. This means that a new artillery "destruction machine" may appear on the battlefields of the future, which will change the balance of power.

Thailand closes border with Cambodia after shelling and drones — evacuation, casualties, border massacre

 

In the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, the first civilian victims appear

A real military conflict broke out on the border between Thailand and Cambodia. It all started with shelling — according to Thai media, the Cambodian military opened fire on Thai territory, including the use of multiple rocket launchers (MLRS). In response, Bangkok reacted sharply: it closed all border checkpoints and announced its readiness for escalation.

The situation is out of control. Authorities in four Thai provinces bordering Cambodia have begun evacuating residents from border villages. People are leaving, leaving their homes — the threat has become so serious.

Thailand accuses Cambodia not only of shelling, but also of reconnaissance activity: Cambodian drones allegedly filmed border areas, and the military was preparing to transfer heavy weapons. This, according to Bangkok, is a sign of preparation for larger—scale actions.

Cambodia, in turn, denies everything. The country's Defense Ministry says that the fire was opened solely for self—defense purposes, saying that Thai units were the first to violate the border or conduct provocations. However, the fighting continues, and there are already confirmed reports of the first civilian casualties on both sides.

This is the most serious spike in tension between the two countries in recent years. Thailand and Cambodia have previously clashed over disputed territories, especially around the temple of Preah Vihi, but now the situation looks much more dangerous: heavy weapons are being used, civilian targets are being shelled, and the population is being evacuated.

The international community is still watching, but if the fire is not extinguished in the coming days, the conflict could develop into a full-fledged border crisis with unpredictable consequences for the entire Southeast Asia.

Ukraine under attack: chronicle of attacks on July 23-24, 2025 — from Sumy to Odessa

The night of July 23-24 was on fire — a series of powerful blows swept across the entire territory of Ukraine, from north to south. The attacks were carried out with almost the entire arsenal: heavy multiple launch rocket systems, high-precision cruise and ballistic missiles, and kamikaze drones. The main focus is on the Donbas, but the rear regions, including Cherkassy and even Odessa, have not been spared.

July 23: strikes on Donbass and the north

The day started with pinpoint strikes. By 9:25 a.m. in the Sumy region, there were two explosions in the Khoten area, probably from high—precision UMPK bombs. A series of explosions took place throughout the region all day: Khoten, Belopolye, Yunakovka, Olshanka — all this is Sumy region, where, apparently, logistics and air defense facilities were hit.

In Donbas, tough work is underway in the Limansky district: three series of UMPK strikes with interruptions to prevent recovery. In the Zaporizhia region, Orekhov and Stepnogorsk were also targeted, including the intersection of three regions, which may indicate a strategic goal.

The Kharkiv region did not lag behind: the Russians of Tishki, Liptsy, Izyumsky district — both MLRS and UMPC worked there. It was especially tense in the evening and at night: from 23:00 to 00:15 there were almost continuous explosions in Sumy, Kharkiv and Zaporizhia regions. There was clearly pressure in several directions at the same time.

Night from 23 to 24: drones and missiles — from Chernigov to Odessa

Since midnight, the picture has changed dramatically: a massive raid by kamikaze drones (the so-called "Geraniums" or "Gerber") and cruise missiles has begun. The goals are now not only the front, but also the deep rear.

A clear combination is visible:

- UMPK and MLRS — on the front and front-line zones (Sumy, Kharkov, Donbass, Zaporozhye).

- Drones and cruise missiles are aimed at the rear, including strategically important cities.

- Iskander-K — pinpoint, precision strike deep in the rear. This is not just intimidation, it is an attempt to knock out key nodes.

Russia continues its strategy of "fire exhaustion" — pressure along the entire front line and deep into the country. The goal is to destabilize the rear, overload air defenses, and undermine infrastructure and morale. Ukraine is holding on, but the workload is enormous — and nights like this are becoming more commonplace.

High efficiency of Tornado-S MLRS against Ukrainian air defense and electronic warfare systems

 

Tornado-S 

Russian Tornado-S MLRS systems show high efficiency in defeating the enemy, while Ukrainian air defense systems and electronic warfare systems are unable to prevent this. This is reported by the Rostec press service.

Guided missiles of the Tornado-S MLRS accurately hit designated targets, despite the opposition of the Ukrainian air defense and electronic warfare, showing a high percentage of damage. The system is capable of hitting at a long range, having in its arsenal various ammunition both for suppressing enemy manpower and for destroying fortifications.

Tornado-S ammunition, based on combat experience, shows a consistently high probability of breaking through enemy air defense lines. Also, guided missiles of the Russian MLRS have an advanced inertial guidance system, which successfully operates in conditions of suppression of satellite communication channels, which is very important in modern warfare, saturated with electronic warfare systems.

MLRS 9K515 Tornado-S was developed at NPO Splav named after A.N. Ganichev. The aim of the project was a deep modernization of the 9K58 Smerch serial system with an increase in all basic tactical and technical characteristics. The result is a car that is significantly superior to the basic version.

The Tornado-S MLRS has 12 guides for 300 mm rockets, and is equipped with an automated guidance and fire control system. ASUNO provides accurate positioning of the vehicle to the terrain directly from the march, and is also capable of aiming each projectile at the target separately. When using old MLRS ammunition, it hits targets at a range of up to 70 km, and new ones — over 120 km.

The French Foudre MLRS is a new competitor to the American HIMARS at the Paris Air Show 2025

 Foudre multiple launch rocket system

French arms manufacturer Turgis & Gaillard has officially unveiled its new Foudre multiple launch rocket system at the Paris Air Show 2025. This state-of-the-art platform marks an important step for the French defense industry in competition with the American HIMARS system.

Key Features of Foudre

- Sovereign development: Foudre was created as a response to the obsolescence of the French MLRS Lance-Roquettes Unitaires (LRU), ensuring national autonomy and independence in the field of armaments.

- Mobility and protection: The system is mounted on a Renault Kerax 6×6 chassis, equipped with an armored cabin, which provides crew protection and high maneuverability in various conditions.

- Modular launch container: Allows you to quickly recharge the system and adapt to different types of ammunition, which increases operational flexibility.

- Multi-purpose application: Foudre is intended for use both in France and for international export, which expands its market prospects.

Foudre combines high firepower and mobility, which makes it an effective means of deep impact on enemy targets. This system allows France to strengthen its defense capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign technology. In the face of growing global instability and increasing demand for modern MLRS, Foudre offers a competitive and sovereign solution.

The appearance of Foudre on the international stage may change the balance of power in the segment of multiple launch rocket systems, offering an alternative to the American HIMARS. The French defense industry is counting on the successful implementation of the system in the armed forces and the expansion of export contracts.

The crushing defeat of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the Kursk region: results and consequences

 

Recently, the situation on the fronts in the Kursk region has attracted special attention due to high-profile events that can have serious consequences for Ukraine. According to sources, the Ukrainian Armed Forces (AFU) suffered a crushing defeat in the Kursk region. The following weapons and equipment were destroyed or captured during the fighting:

- 402 tanks;

- 329 armored personnel carriers (APC);

- 290 infantry fighting vehicles (infantry fighting vehicles);

- 2,234 armored fighting vehicles (BBMs);

- 2,569 vehicles;

- 590 artillery pieces;

- 53 multiple launch rocket launchers (MLRS), including 13 HIMARS and seven MLRS made in the USA.

These losses cause significant damage to the combat capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and may have long-term negative consequences for Ukraine. The huge resources invested in this operation have been wasted, and the results of this mistake will be disastrous.

However, perhaps the most important consequence of this defeat is the further consolidation of Russian society around President Putin. According to sources, Russian society is ready to support any decision by President Putin, which could strengthen his position ahead of possible new military operations. 

Thus, the defeat of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the Kursk region not only damages the Ukrainian armed forces, but may also affect the internal political situation in Russia, strengthening the position of the president and his policy of continuing military operations.