US Precision Strike Missile Linked to Civilian Deaths in Iranian City
Analysis suggests new Lockheed Martin missile caused widespread destruction in Lamerd, killing civilians.
1Combat Debut Under Scrutiny
The Lockheed Martin Precision Strike Missile, touted as a next-generation weapon, reportedly saw its first combat use during the Iran war. Investigations by Airwars and weapons experts indicate the missile may have caused significant civilian casualties in the city of Lamerd on February 28, raising concerns about its deployment near populated areas.
2Lethal Blast Pattern Identified
The PrSM is designed to detonate midair, propelling tens of thousands of dense tungsten pellets across a wide radius. Analysis of satellite imagery and videos shows buildings and vehicles in Lamerd pockmarked by this specific blast pattern. Experts confirm this damage is consistent with the weapon's unique design and high-velocity fragmentation capabilities.
3Civilian Toll in Lamerd
At least 21 civilians, including seven children, were killed during the strikes on Lamerd. Damage was recorded up to 170 meters from the detonation points, affecting a sports complex and residential neighborhoods. Reports indicate victims included teenagers playing volleyball and a toddler in her yard, with no evidence of military personnel casualties.
4Conflicting Official Statements
The US military confirmed firing PrSMs into Iran but explicitly denied attacking Lamerd. Central Command suggested the footage might show an Iranian Hoveyzeh cruise missile, though weapons experts dispute this, noting the visual evidence does not match the Iranian model. The Pentagon maintains that US forces do not target civilian areas during operations.
5Technical Capabilities and Risks
Replacing the older Army Tactical Missile System, the PrSM offers extended range and advanced sensor suites. Unlike its predecessor, which uses steel fragments, the PrSM utilizes tungsten pellets that retain their shape and lethality after detonation. Former military advisers warn that such weapons are ill-suited for use in densely populated urban environments.
6Production and Global Procurement
Despite the controversy, the Pentagon recently signed a contract exceeding $4 billion to quadruple PrSM production. International interest remains high, with Australia purchasing the missiles in 2025 and the UK allocating 130 million pounds for procurement. These investments highlight the strategic value militaries place on the missile's precision and extended range.
7Expert Warnings on Deployment
Former Pentagon advisers emphasize that the PrSM should be reserved for targeting enemy personnel or armored concentrations rather than civilian zones. Experts note that the weapon's wide-area effect makes it inherently dangerous for non-combatants who lack structural protection. Proper mitigation strategies are essential when deploying such high-impact munitions in active conflict.
8Ongoing Investigation Challenges
Airwars continues to monitor the impact of these strikes using geolocation software and open-source intelligence. While the US military has denied responsibility for the Lamerd incident, the discrepancy between official claims and forensic evidence remains a point of contention. Future investigations will likely focus on reconciling these conflicting accounts of the event.
Original article: Gulf News — US Precision Strike Missile Linked to Civilian Deaths in Iranian City