Washington, December 26, 2025 (Agencies) – The United States Army has activated a new artillery battalion aimed at enhancing long-range strike options and strengthening deterrence in Europe, signaling a key step in the service’s modernization drive.
The Third Battalion, 12th Field Artillery Regiment was formally activated on October 17 in New York under the 56th Theater Multi-Domain Command. According to an official announcement, the move represents a significant expansion of the Army’s long-range fires capability for the European theater.
Although the battalion is administratively affiliated with the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, New York, it will operate under the control of the 2nd Multi-Domain Task Force, which falls within the 56th Multi-Domain Command-Europe.
Army officials said the activation reintroduces a modern long-range precision fires battalion, providing commanders in Europe with greater range, increased flexibility, and additional options to deter or respond to threats in an evolving security environment.
The battalion comprises more than 500 soldiers and is equipped with High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS. The truck-mounted launcher is capable of firing precision-guided rockets at distances of up to approximately 186 miles, depending on the munition, according to manufacturer Lockheed Martin.
In addition to HIMARS, the unit is also equipped with Mid-Range Capability systems designed to engage targets at even longer distances, further enhancing its strike potential.
Colonel Jeffrey Pickler, commander of the task force, said the battalion’s activation reflects the Army’s commitment to readiness, innovation, and support for allies and partners overseas. However, officials have not confirmed whether or when the unit’s personnel and equipment will be deployed outside the United States.
The establishment of the new battalion is part of the broader Army Transformation Initiative, which seeks to reshape force structure and capabilities in response to emerging global security challenges.