Elbit Systems Ltd., an Israeli defense technology company, has signed a $130 million contract to supply advanced rocket munitions for its Precise and Universal Launching System (PULS) to an undisclosed European customer, the company announced Tuesday.
The deal, which will be executed over the next three years, reflects the growing demand for precision-guided artillery systems amid rising security concerns in Europe.
The newly secured contract includes the delivery of multiple rocket types, designed to extend both tactical and strategic strike capabilities. Among the munitions covered in the agreement are:
- ACCULAR Rockets: With a range of up to 35 kilometers, these guided artillery rockets are designed for precision strikes against enemy positions.
- EXTRA Rockets: Boasting an extended range of 150 kilometers, these rockets provide deeper strike capability for tactical operations.
- Predator Hawk Rockets: With a long-range capacity of 300 kilometers, these advanced munitions allow forces to strike high-value targets from greater distances.
- Elbit Systems has stated that the contract also includes training rockets, which will help the customer integrate these weapons into its military forces effectively.
The PULS system, which serves as the primary launcher for these munitions, is a highly adaptable artillery rocket system that can deploy a variety of guided and unguided rockets from a single platform. Unlike traditional multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), PULS features a modular design, enabling operators to quickly switch between different types of munitions. This capability ensures sustained effectiveness in complex battlefield environments.
Yehuda (Udi) Vered, General Manager of Elbit Systems Land, emphasized the significance of the deal:
“We are proud to have been awarded this contract to deliver training rockets and operational precision-guided rockets to an additional European customer for its PULS launchers. This achievement underscores the increased demand both in Europe and globally for the PULS system, its state-of-the-art capabilities, and broad range of rocket munitions.”
He further added that as European nations continue to enhance their defense capabilities, the selection of PULS demonstrates its strategic value in modern warfare.
The deal comes amid a wave of recent PULS acquisitions by European nations, reflecting the continent’s increasing focus on long-range precision fire capabilities. Countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, and Denmark have all recently procured the system, a move likely driven by evolving security challenges in the region.
Although the customer in the latest agreement has not been disclosed, defense analysts speculate that several European nations could be involved, particularly those that have prioritized enhancing their artillery and missile capabilities.
The ongoing war in Ukraine and increasing military tensions in Eastern Europe have pushed several countries to modernize their forces, investing in precision-guided artillery, missile defense systems, and long-range strike capabilities. The acquisition of the PULS system aligns with this trend, offering nations a cost-effective, versatile, and highly precise artillery solution.
PULS has gained traction in Europe due to its flexibility, affordability, and combat effectiveness. Unlike traditional MLRS systems such as the M270 or HIMARS, PULS is platform-agnostic, meaning it can be integrated onto a variety of vehicles, from trucks to armored carriers, depending on a military’s existing infrastructure.
Another advantage of PULS is its ability to fire multiple types of munitions without requiring modifications to the launcher. This modularity allows operators to quickly adjust to changing battlefield conditions, switching between shorter-range rockets for tactical strikes and longer-range missiles for strategic operations.
Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of the system makes it attractive to European nations that seek to strengthen their military capabilities without the financial burden of procuring multiple separate systems.
The increasing adoption of long-range rocket artillery systems like PULS reflects a broader shift in European defense policy. In the past, many European militaries focused primarily on short-range defensive capabilities, relying on NATO airpower and U.S. military support to provide long-range strike options. However, recent geopolitical events have reshaped military priorities, with European nations now seeking greater self-sufficiency in their defense posture.
The war in Ukraine has highlighted the importance of deep-strike capabilities, as artillery and precision-guided rockets have played a critical role in shaping battlefield outcomes. As a result, European nations are increasingly looking to expand their artillery and missile forces, ensuring they can deter potential aggressors and respond swiftly to threats.
Elbit Systems has positioned itself as a key player in the global defense market, particularly in the field of advanced artillery, electronic warfare, and precision munitions. The company’s PULS system has seen growing interest from multiple international customers, with recent sales indicating that European nations are eager to diversify their defense suppliers beyond traditional U.S. and European firms.
Elbit has also expanded its market presence in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, where countries are investing in modernized defense solutions. The company’s ability to offer highly flexible, scalable, and cost-effective systems has made it a competitive option for nations looking to upgrade their military forces without excessive spending.
The signing of this $130 million contract is another step toward bolstering European military capabilities, particularly in the realm of long-range precision strike. With more European countries acquiring PULS and similar rocket artillery systems, it is likely that future conflicts will see a greater reliance on precision-guided munitions, reducing the need for massive troop deployments and increasing the effectiveness of stand-off engagements.
As more nations seek to modernize their arsenals, Elbit Systems is expected to continue securing contracts for its artillery and missile solutions. The demand for PULS and its advanced munitions is unlikely to slow down, as European militaries focus on adapting to modern threats and ensuring their armed forces remain well-equipped for future conflicts.
Elbit Systems’ latest deal reinforces the strategic value of the PULS system and underscores the growing role of precision-guided rocket artillery in modern warfare. Whether additional European countries will follow suit remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: long-range firepower is becoming a cornerstone of European defense strategy.
