Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Mar 13: The United States has used its new Precision Strike Missile in combat for the first time during ongoing military operations against Iran, marking a significant step in the deployment of advanced American artillery systems.

The development was disclosed by Gen. Dan Caine during a briefing on Thursday about the progress of the military campaign.

“In just the first 13 days of this operation, our artillery forces have made history,” Caine said, adding that the missile was fired by United States Army artillery units targeting Iranian military infrastructure.

According to the general, American soldiers and Marines deployed in the region are operating sophisticated rocket and missile systems capable of striking targets far beyond the immediate battlefield. These include the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS).

Caine said the forces have used ATACMS to destroy Iranian naval assets, including multiple ships and even a submarine.

The general also highlighted the role of young troops participating in the mission, including soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment based at Fort Bragg. One of the soldiers who helped fire the first Precision Strike Missile had been in the Army for just six months and had joined the unit only two months earlier.

Despite their limited experience, Caine said the troops carried out their missions with professionalism and composure. Artillery crews operate from armoured rocket vehicles and, once a firing order is received, program the systems before launching the missile with a sequence of simple controls.

The introduction of the Precision Strike Missile represents a key step in modernising US long-range strike capabilities. The new system is designed to eventually replace the ATACMS platform and significantly extend the range and precision of American artillery forces.