General Atomics Electromagnetic Spectrum has secured a contract to develop a next-generation 155mm artillery round for the U.S. Army’s Extended Range Artillery Projectile (ERAP) program, joining General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems and BAE Systems in the competition. The award makes General Atomics the third vendor vying to produce a new variant designed to strike targets at significantly greater distances.
The ERAP effort aligns with the Army’s broader push to extend artillery reach and counter enemy long-range fires. By fielding a projectile capable of engaging targets beyond current 155mm systems, the service aims to improve survivability and lethality of its howitzer crews on future battlefields.
All four vendors are now competing for a single production award, though the Army has not disclosed the selection timeline or additional contract details. The program reflects a growing emphasis on cannon artillery modernization within the service’s long-range precision fires portfolio.
During a test last year, General Atomics’ projectile struck targets more than 74 miles away after being fired from an M777 howitzer, according to Defense News. The company’s entry leverages electromagnetic spectrum technologies to extend range and improve accuracy beyond conventional shell designs.
The contract award follows similar ERAP selections for General Dynamics and BAE Systems, signaling the Army’s intent to evaluate multiple approaches before committing to a final design. Analysts note that range and cost will be decisive factors as service officials weigh trade-offs between performance and producibility.