Multiple Launch Rocket Systems
120-mm MLRS "Grad"
In 1965 the production of 122—mm MLRS «Grad» is organized. At that time the new aerodynamic rocket stabilization was created, rocket fin assembly being in the folded position when loaded is straightened out and fixed rigidly on leaving the launching tube. This allowed to design a compact cluster of launching tubes. OAO «Motovilikhinskiye zavody» has armed the Armies of different countries with more than 2000 pieces of BM—21 MLRS.
At present BM—21 is manufactured on a diesel chassis Ural — 4320 as an up-dated model BM-21-1 (index 2B17) with the automated guidance and fire control system (AGFCS), satellite navigation system (NAP SNS), launch preparation equipment (LPE), providing:
- initial orientation of tube cluster;
- definition of initial coordinates;
- definition of the current coordinates during movement with displaying of its location and route of movement on the computer’s electronic map of the district;
- guiding of tube cluster without exit of a crew from a cabin and without use of laying points;
- automated distance data input to the fuse of rocket projectile (RP);
- launch of RP without exit of a crew from a cabin.
The fighting vehicle BM-21-1 is intended for hitting of fire force and non armoured equipment in the nearest tactical depth.
Transport vehicle (TV) 9T254 with unified assembly of racks 9F37M is intended for transportation of RP.
MAIN CHARACTERISTICS
MLRS «Grad» consists of:
- Fighting vehicle BM-21-1 (index 2B17)
- Transport vehicle (TV) 9T254
- Rocket projectiles (RP)
Calibre, mm
122
Range of fire, km:
maximum
40
minimum
5
Full salvo fire time, s
20
Number of tubes, pcs
40
Mass of base RP, kg
66,6
FV weight, t
13,7
Crew, men
3
Loading time, min.
7
Time from taking up unprepared
fire position to engagement, min.3
Time of leaving fire position after salvo fire, min.
1
Area covered by one salvo, ha
14,5
Ammunition capacity at racks assembly, pcs
60
