20 May 2025 , 10:45
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On May 19, at the Future Artillery conference in London, the company Tiberius Aerospace unveiled its high-precision 155mm artillery shell — the Sceptre TRBM 155HG — for the first time. The shell is equipped with a liquid-fueled ramjet engine (LFRE).
Details of the development were shared in a press release by the startup.
Experts highlight that the Sceptre represents a significant advancement in artillery technology thanks to its impressive technical capabilities. The new munition can engage targets at distances of up to 160 km, offers an accuracy of within 5 meters, and combines low cost with high operational flexibility. It is compatible with standard NATO 155mm artillery systems, reaches speeds of up to Mach 3.5, and climbs to altitudes of around 20 km.
The shell’s engine activates after it exits the barrel, using incoming air and a minimal number of moving parts — reducing its vulnerability to electronic warfare and GPS jamming. The Sceptre TRBM 155HG uses a hybrid guidance system (GPS/INS) with AI-based correction and a data link, while a programmable fuse ensures precise detonation in the terminal phase.
At the same time, the Sceptre uses liquid fuels — JP-4 and JP-8 — which makes its design more complex than that of comparable systems. The 7-liter fuel tank is filled immediately prior to use. The fully loaded shell weighs 47.5 kg and is 1,550 mm in length. For comparison, the standard 155mm M107 shell weighs approximately 40 kg and is 605 mm long.
Design of the Sceptre TRBM 155HG Munition
Observers from Army Recognition note the relatively small warhead of the Sceptre — just 5.2 kg compared to 22 kg in the M982 Excalibur. However, this is offset by the shell’s exceptional accuracy and impressive strike range, making it a highly effective precision-guided munition despite the lighter explosive payload.
Trajectory phases of the Sceptre TRBM 155HG
Another important advantage of the development is its cost. According to the company’s estimates, the price of a single shell is less than 10% of the cost of a GMLRS round. For comparison, the cost of the Sceptre (excluding fuel and warhead) is about $52,000, while the maximum price of the M982 Excalibur as of 2023 was up to $178,000.
Specifications of the Sceptre TRBM 155HG
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Caliber: 155 mm
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Engine type: liquid-fueled ramjet
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Firing range: 140–160 km
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Speed: up to Mach 3.5
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Maximum flight altitude: 19.8 km
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Guidance system: GPS with AI correction and update link
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CEP: less than 5 meters
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Warhead: 5.2 kg
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Compatibility: standard NATO howitzers
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Shelf life: up to 20 years
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Estimated cost: about $52,000
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