The first firing tests of the unmanned HIMARS launcher took place in the United States.

The autonomous version of the rocket launcher has the abbreviation AML (Autonomous Multi-domain Launcher).

According to The War Zone, the prototype was tested last month at the Yuma test site in Arizona.

The U.S. Army sees the deployment of this unmanned system as a way to increase its ability to strike land and sea targets without the need for a large number of additional personnel.

The AML prototype is based on the M142 HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System), but it is distinguished by the absence of a cockpit for the crew. The engine compartment and controls are located in the front.

The system can move autonomously along the waypoint-based route between certain points, in particular as part of the column.

If necessary, the operator can also control the AML launcher, being nearby or at a short distance from it.

Before the firing, the US Army tested the system in various modes. The AML is said to have successfully demonstrated the ability to autonomously get to a firing position, move along a set course, and execute control commands.

During the fire tests, the unmanned HIMARS successfully launched a total of six RRPR (Reduced Range Practice Rockets) munitions.

The AML is just one of several new long-range ground-based weapons that the U.S. Army is currently developing or already using.

The AML is designed to use the same ammunition as the HIMARS and M270 MLRS and therefore is capable of using all types of 227mm rockets, in particular various high-precision missiles of the GMLRS family, as well as ATACMS tactical ballistic missiles and the latest PrSM.

Similar to M142, the AML system can be carried using a C-130 military transport aircraft and other heavy aircraft.