The US military has for the first time used the new Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) short-range ballistic missiles as part of ongoing operations against Iran. This appears to be the combat debut of the PrSM, which entered service approximately two years ago, according to TWZ.

The missiles' combat debut demonstrates a significantly greater range compared to their predecessor, the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), as well as expanded strike capabilities that US forces can now hold at risk.

US Central Command (CENTCOM) previously released a video montage documenting the "first 24 hours of Operation Epic Fury." Among the images published on social media is a frame clearly showing a PrSM launch from a wheeled M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launcher. Some footage likely shows launches of both PrSM and ATACMS.

The PrSM's range significantly exceeds that of ATACMS. The baseline version (Increment 1) can strike targets at approximately 500 km. The US Army aims to extend this to around 650 km, and a variant with a range of at least 1,000 km is also in development. By comparison, the longest-range version of ATACMS reaches around 300 km.

The launch locations of PrSM or ATACMS during the Iran strikes remain unknown. Nevertheless, the PrSM's doubled range substantially increases the number of targets that can be held at risk from any point in the region, and is particularly effective against targets requiring rapid response — such as Iranian launchers and air defense systems, which have been primary targets in the current phase of the conflict.

The high terminal velocity also makes interception more difficult compared to other missile types, including subsonic cruise missiles, and allows ballistic missiles to penetrate hardened targets more effectively — a relevant factor given Iran's fortified facilities.

The combat use of PrSM also sends a signal to other potential US adversaries, with the missile's range being especially relevant in potential high-end conflicts in the Pacific, where land-based launch opportunities are limited.