U.S. Military Deploys Precision Strike Missiles in Iran for First Time

The U.S. military has utilized the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) in combat for the first time during Operation Epic Fury, a military campaign against Iranian targets that began on February 28, 2026. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the missile's deployment, highlighting its role in enhancing the military's long-range strike capabilities. The operation marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, which has seen extensive military engagement across Iran and surrounding regions.

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Developed by Lockheed Martin, the PrSM is a next-generation surface-to-surface missile designed to replace the aging Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS). The PrSM boasts a range exceeding 499 kilometers (310 miles), significantly surpassing the ATACMS' maximum range of 300 kilometers (186 miles). Each HIMARS launcher can carry two PrSMs per pod, doubling the missile load compared to its predecessor. The missile features an advanced guidance system that combines inertial navigation with GPS, enhancing its accuracy and effectiveness against well-protected targets, including command centers and air defense systems.

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The introduction of the PrSM is significant as it allows the U.S. military to engage targets at greater distances, a capability previously restricted under the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, from which the U.S. withdrew in 2019. The missile's deployment is seen as a strategic advantage in the Middle East, particularly given the proximity of U.S. military bases in Gulf countries to Iran. The PrSM's operational debut is expected to reshape the U.S. military's approach to long-range engagements, providing a more robust deterrent against adversaries.

DefenseScoop

Admiral Brad Cooper, head of CENTCOM, expressed pride in the military's innovative capabilities, stating, “I just could not be prouder of our men and women in uniform leveraging innovation to create dilemmas for the enemy.” The use of the PrSM is part of a broader strategy that includes other advanced munitions, such as Low-Cost Unmanned Combat Attack System (LUCAS) drones and Tomahawk cruise missiles, further enhancing the U.S. military's operational flexibility.

Military Times

Concerns have been raised regarding the sustainability of U.S. munitions stockpiles amid the extensive use of advanced weaponry in the conflict. Defense experts warn that over-reliance on long-range missiles like the PrSM could deplete resources intended for potential conflicts in other regions, particularly the Indo-Pacific. Retired Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery emphasized the importance of conserving these munitions for future use, suggesting that the current deployment may be more of a demonstration than a strategic necessity.

DefenseScoop

While CENTCOM has confirmed the use of PrSMs in Operation Epic Fury, specific details regarding the targets and the exact nature of the strikes remain undisclosed. Additionally, the broader implications of the conflict, including Iran's retaliatory actions involving missile and drone strikes against U.S.-aligned countries, highlight the escalating tensions in the region.

Military Times

As Operation Epic Fury continues, further developments are anticipated, including potential expansions of U.S. military operations and ongoing assessments of the effectiveness of the PrSM and other advanced weapon systems. The situation remains fluid, with both U.S. and Iranian forces actively engaged in military actions across the region.

Military Times