Joint Reduced Range Rocket (JR3)

The Joint Reduced Range Rocket (JR3) program is a research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) initiative managed by the U.S. Army, aimed at developing a new training rocket to replace the existing Low Cost Reduced Range Practice Rocket (LCRRPR). The LCRRPR is currently the only live training rocket supporting annual qualification and pre-deployment requirements for both Active and National Guard High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) launcher units. The JR3 program is necessary because the inventory of launch pod containers and rocket motors for the LCRRPR will be depleted by FY 2030, and no further production is possible using current assets.

The primary goal of the JR3 program is to ensure the Army can continue to meet its Standards in Training Commission (STRAC) requirements for live-fire training and certification of HIMARS and MLRS crews. The program seeks to develop a new, affordable, and compatible training rocket that can be integrated into existing launch pod containers and fired from current HIMARS and MLRS launchers. The JR3 is part of the MLRS Family of Munitions (MFOM) and is critical for maintaining the readiness and proficiency of artillery units.

Funding in FY 2026 supports the continuation of the prototyping and development phase. This funding enables detailed design work by contractors, software development for launcher fire control systems, component and system ground testing, and prototype flight demonstrations. The Aviation and Missile Center (AvMC) at Redstone Arsenal is involved in system analysis, trade studies, and prototyping support, ensuring that the new rocket meets operational and technical requirements.

The acquisition strategy for JR3 involves leveraging available rocket motor technologies to create a cost-effective solution that can be produced on the required timeline. The program will utilize an Other Transactional Authority (OTA) contract in FY 2025 to support competitive prototyping of two candidate systems. This approach is designed to accelerate innovation and down-select to a single solution following prototype flight testing. A qualification phase is planned to begin in FY 2027 to support a future production decision.

The JR3 development schedule includes several key milestones: system design updates and interim design reviews in FY 2025 and FY 2026, followed by prototype flight demonstrations and evaluations extending into FY 2027. The program is structured to ensure that production can begin by FY 2030, aligning with the depletion of current LCRRPR inventories and avoiding a gap in live-fire training capability for artillery units.

A portion of the funding is allocated to the SBIR/STTR Transfer in accordance with Title 15 USC 638, supporting small business innovation and technology research relevant to the JR3 program. This transfer ensures compliance with federal requirements and may contribute to technology advancements or efficiencies in the JR3 development process.