Smerch multiple launch rocket system. Multiple launch rocket system "Smerch"
After the ever-memorable Katyusha, our Armed Forces have always paid special attention to multiple launch rocket systems. This is not surprising: they are relatively cheap, easy to manufacture, but at the same time they are extremely mobile, ensuring the defeat of the enemy’s manpower and material base almost anywhere where hostilities take place.
One of the most effective representatives of this family was the Smerch system. Over the entire period of its use, this MLRS has proven itself to be an effective and extremely reliable weapon.
What can the system be used for?
The Smerch was designed to destroy both enemy personnel and heavily armored rolling stock. Using this system, command centers and communication centers can be destroyed, and can also be remotely installed at a distance of up to 70 km.
History of creation
In 1961, the M-21 MLRS was adopted by the USSR Armed Forces, the characteristics of which did not completely suit the Soviet military. Therefore, at the end of the 1970s, scientific research was quickly carried out at the State Research and Production Enterprise "Splav" aimed at creating a weapon that would ensure more reliable destruction of targets by equipping it with powerful projectiles with a high content of explosives.
As a result, in mid-1980, the Smerch project was sent to the state expert commission for consideration. This MLRS ensured the delivery of a projectile over a distance of up to 70 km. Let us recall that the military requirements then provided for a chassis that would allow maneuvering on terrain at speeds of up to 70 km/h (with high cross-country ability).
Start of production
The new Smerch rocket launcher met all the stated requirements, had great prospects due to the low cost of production, and therefore already in 1985 a decree was issued to begin work on the serial production of the system. Already in 1987, the work was completely completed, and the first “Smerchs” began test shooting.
At the beginning of the next year, the MLRS (taking into account the elimination of some shortcomings and comments) was finally recommended for adoption by the country.
Main characteristics of the prototype
The system adopted for service fired 200 mm caliber shells, with a range of effective enemy suppression of 20/70 km. A huge advantage of the type is that their action was not much inferior to the combat characteristics of the “blanks” previously adopted for service.
Thus, the range of destruction of lying (!) enemy infantry exceeds 1300 meters from the epicenter of the charge explosion. One tracked chassis could carry from 25 to 35 shells.
Characteristics of the system adopted for service
Despite all the above performance characteristics, military experts were not completely satisfied with the destructive power of the shells. After revision, the final version of the Smerch MLRS was born, the performance characteristics of which are given below.
Thus, the caliber was raised to 300 mm, the weight of the projectile was increased to 815 kilograms. The charge itself has a mass of more than 250 kilograms. The firing range remained the same (maximum - 90 kilometers). This time, the designers provided not only a tracked (object 123), but also a wheeled chassis based on the MAZ-543A vehicle.
It should be noted that the 9k58 Smerch MLRS is precisely a complex that includes several structural elements at once.
Main components
- Chassis 9A52-2 based on MAZ-543A.
- Transport and loading machine 9T234-2.
- The shells themselves.
- shooting and correction "Vivarium".
- Facilities for training and training of complex operators.
- Automotive complex for topographical study of terrain 1T12-2M.
- Direction finding system 1B44.
- Equipment for repair and maintenance of material parts 9F381.
Deployed performance characteristics
As mentioned above, the 9A52-2 chassis was created on the basis of the MAZ-543A car, whose wheel arrangement is 8x8. As for the artillery part, it includes sixteen guides, a rotating mechanism with sighting and correction devices, as well as electromechanical and hydraulic stabilizing devices.
Guidance and rotation mechanisms can direct projectiles at an angle of 5-55 degrees. Horizontal guidance is within 30 degrees in each direction. In this way, the Smerch rocket system differs in many respects from the Hurricane, which has a horizontal guidance limit of the same 30 degrees (15 degrees per side). To make the installation more stable when firing, there are two hydraulic stops in the rear part, which can be manually brought to their original position.
Another advantage of the complex is the fact that rockets can be transported directly in the guides. Considering that the chassis vehicle is equipped with night vision devices and a high-quality radio station, even night transportation does not present any particular difficulties.
Guide Details
The guides themselves are made in the form of thick-walled pipes, in the walls of which there is a screw groove, to which the pin of the reactive charge clings at the moment the shot is fired. This pin is an analogue of rifling in small arms barrels, as it sets the required flight vector of the projectile.
The entire set of guides is rigidly fixed on the rectangular cradle. Thanks to the two axles with which it is connected to the upper machine, this base can be accurately aimed at the target using rotary mechanisms.
The charge is held on a given trajectory using drop-down stabilizers (like RPG shots). The Smerch multiple launch rocket system covers more than 67 hectares in one go!
Most often, shooting is carried out from closed positions. It is possible to control fire directly from the operator's cabin. The crew of the complex includes four people in peacetime and six in wartime. A BM commander, one gunner, and a driver are appointed. The number of soldiers servicing the weapon varies.
A little about shells
The most commonly used standard high-explosive projectile is the 9M55F. The head part is solid, the weight of the explosive does not exceed 100 kg. They are used to treat advanced enemy fortifications, to combat lodged infantry and destroy light armored vehicles on the march.
The 9M55K model was developed specifically for the destruction of enemy personnel. The head of each projectile contains 72 separable elements (2 kilograms each) with explosive and destructive elements. Just 10-12 such charges are enough to completely destroy a standard motorized infantry company.
On the contrary, the 9M55K1 projectile was developed specifically to combat armored vehicles (including heavy tanks). In its head there are five projectiles with automatic aiming. If the Smerch combat system is used in the role of a “tank hunter,” then a simultaneous salvo of just four vehicles is sufficient to completely destroy an entire tank company (!).
Other mechanisms
The rotating part of the machine is the most complex in its design. Its design includes a rocker, rotating, lifting and compensating mechanisms, as well as a manual guidance mechanism and a guidance operator’s workplace. Locking mechanisms are important (including for the pumping hydraulics), on which shooting accuracy largely depends. The compensation mechanism includes a pair of torsion bars and fastening parts.
In general, the Smerch MLRS, a photo of which is in the article, is subjected to catastrophic overloads during salvo fire, so not only the shooting accuracy, but also the safety of the entire crew depends on the state of the compensatory mechanisms.
In normal mode, a hydroelectric drive is used to guide the guides to the target. If the mechanism fails or is damaged, there is a manual drive. When moving, all rotating parts are blocked by locking blocks. In addition, the hydraulic lock of the rocking chair greatly relieves the entire complex when performing shooting.
The sighting system includes the proven and proven sight D726-45. The goniometer device is the usual standard PG-1M gun panorama.
What does the Smerch complex provide?
- Complete safety of the crew, which provides the ability to conduct both combat and training shooting.
- Possibility of single and salvo fire. If a salvo strike is carried out, then all the shells go away in 38 seconds. This distinguishes the Smerch rocket artillery from its other analogues, which require more time to fire.
- If there is a possibility that the firing crew will be hit by sniper or harassing fire from the enemy, then it is possible to control fire from cover located at a distance of up to 60 meters from the vehicle.
- More than half of the control components are duplicated. Even if the main elements fail, you can aim at the target and shoot manually.
Other features
Since the complex was put into service relatively recently (in 1987), there are currently no plans to remove it from production. Moreover, today several programs have been developed to modernize the Smerchs currently in service.
Thus, it was within the framework of this program that the complex received the “Vivarium” automatic fire control system, although before that the “Kapustnik” was installed, which was simultaneously used in the “Uragan” MLRS.
Traditionally, our designers took care of the impeccable operation of all systems in the climatic conditions that can be encountered throughout the territory of the former Soviet Union. Thus, the Smerch multiple launch rocket system can be used at temperatures from -50 to +45 degrees Celsius.
In addition, today combat system operators have the ability to clearly see the target, even in the absence of pre-issued coordinates or communication with the gunner. The fact is that (in full accordance with the rearmament program until 2020), the equipment of the updated Smerchs works perfectly with the guidance of unmanned aerial vehicles, which are currently also being adopted by our aircraft.
The same applies to other guidance control systems that are already in service or are just being developed. Thus, in combat conditions, operators can use the guidance systems of Hurricanes or Grads. In general, the Smerch MLRS is surprisingly “plastic”, which provides an incredible range of possibilities for its use.
The order of combat use
As in all other cases, the use of this multiple rocket launcher system is fully subject to the special provisions of the Charter.
First, the command post of a brigade of MLRS vehicles must receive data about the enemy, as well as about his location. Based on the information obtained, calculations are made about the direction of the impact. The type of ammunition, the density of fire, and its adjustment depending on the conditions on the ground are selected. After this, all information is transmitted to the command post of the division that was selected to solve the corresponding combat mission.
After this, the command staff studies the received data, correlating them with the available resources. Considering that the Smerch is a reactive system, its operation requires a fairly open and spacious position, since in heavily wooded or mountainous terrain, launching projectiles may be unsafe for the operators themselves.
The transmitted data is processed on the computing facilities of the Smerch battery (six machines). Everything happens automatically, since the military has repeatedly found out that this approach dramatically increases the effectiveness of fire. In addition, this reduces the time required to bring the complex into combat position by hundreds of times.
Immediately after this, the unit commanders wait for the order to open fire on enemy positions.
That's what "Smerch" is. This MLRS has proven to be a surprisingly effective and reliable weapon, and therefore is in service today with dozens of countries around the world. Modernized versions of it are constantly supplied to our troops today.
Soviet and Russian 300 mm multiple launch rocket system.
History of creation
The Smerch multiple launch rocket system was created in the USSR by specialists from TulgosNIItochmash (then NPO Splav, and now FSUE State Research and Production Enterprise Splav, Tula), as well as related enterprises. Before its development in 1990 by China, the WS-1 was the longest-range system.
The artillery unit is mounted on a modified MAZ-79111 or MAZ-543M truck chassis. For India, a variant of the combat vehicle was developed based on the Tatra 816 6ZVR8T10x10.1 R/41T off-road truck.
Preparing the Smerch for battle after receiving target designation takes three minutes; a full salvo is fired within 38 seconds. After firing, the battery is ready for marching in one minute, which allows you to quickly escape from the enemy's retaliatory strike.
Ammunition
-9M55K
300-mm rocket with a 9N139 cassette warhead with 9N235 fragmentation warheads. Contains 72 combat elements (BE), carrying 6912 ready-made heavy fragments designed to destroy unarmored vehicles, and 25920 ready-made light fragments intended to destroy enemy personnel in places where they are concentrated; in total - up to 32832 fragments.
The affected area of the element is 300-1100 m2. Armor penetration at a distance of 10 m is 5-7 mm, at a distance of 100 m - 1-3 mm. 16 shells contain 525,312 finished fragments. Most effective in open areas, steppes and deserts. Serial production of 9M55K (and 9M55K-IN - with BE inert equipment) began in 1987. Delivered to Algeria and India.
-9M55K1
A rocket with a 9N142 cluster warhead (KGCh) with self-aiming combat elements (SPBE). The cassette warhead carries 5 SPBE "Motiv-3M" (9N349), equipped with dual-band infrared coordinators that search for the target at an angle of 30 degrees. Each of them can penetrate at an angle of 30 degrees. from a height of 100 meters, 70 mm armor. Suitable for use in open areas, steppes and deserts; use in forests is almost impossible; operation in the city is difficult. Designed to destroy groups of armored vehicles and tanks from above. Tests completed in 1994 and accepted in 1996. By order of the Minister of Defense No. 372 of October 13, 1996, the 9M55K1 projectile was adopted by the Russian Army. Delivered to Algeria.
A rocket with a KGC 9N539 for anti-tank mining of terrain. Each projectile contains 25 anti-tank mines “PTM-3” with an electronic proximity fuse; in just one salvo of the installation there are 300 anti-tank mines. Designed for operational remote placement of anti-tank minefields in front of enemy military equipment units located at the attack line, or in the area where they are accumulated.
-9M55K5
A rocket with a KGC 9N176 with cumulative fragmentation combat elements (KOBE). The cassette warhead contains 646 combat elements with a length of 118 mm, or 588 elements with a length of 128 mm, weighing 240 g each, and having a cylindrical shape. Elements with a length of 118 mm are capable of normally penetrating up to 120 mm of homogeneous armor, and elements with a length of 128 mm can penetrate up to 160 mm. Maximum effective against motorized infantry on the march, located in armored personnel carriers and infantry fighting vehicles. A total of 12 shells contain 7752 or 7056 combat elements. Designed to destroy open and hidden manpower and lightly armored military equipment.
A rocket with a detachable high-explosive fragmentation warhead. Designed to destroy manpower, unarmored and lightly armored military equipment in places where they are concentrated, to destroy command posts, communication centers and infrastructure facilities. It was adopted by the Russian Army in 1992, and has been in mass production since 1999. Delivered to India.
-9M55S
Missile with thermobaric warhead 9M216 "Excitement". The explosion of one shell creates a thermal field with a diameter of at least 25 m (depending on the terrain). The field temperature is over +1000 degrees C, the lifetime is at least 1.4 s.
Designed to destroy manpower, open and hidden in open fortifications and unarmored and lightly armored military equipment. It is most effective in the steppe and desert, in a city located on non-hilly terrain. Testing of the ammunition was completed in 2004. By Order of the President of the Russian Federation No. 1288 of October 7, 2004, the 9M55S was adopted by the Russian Army.
-9M528
A rocket with a high-explosive fragmentation warhead. Contact fuse, instant and delayed action. Designed to destroy manpower, unarmored and lightly armored military equipment in places where they are concentrated, destroying command posts, communication centers and infrastructure facilities.
An experimental missile with a small-sized reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) of the "Tipchak" type.
Designed to conduct operational reconnaissance of targets within twenty minutes. In the target area, the UAV descends by parachute, scanning the situation and transmitting information on the coordinates of reconnaissance targets to the control complex at a distance of up to 70 km, for quickly making a decision to destroy the reconnaissance object.
Ammunition developments
Minimum range 40 km, maximum range 120 km. Length 7600 mm, total weight 820 kg, warhead weight 150 kg, explosive weight 70 kg, loaded with 500 pieces of finished fragments weighing 50 g.
Options
The long-range multiple launch rocket system is designed to hit almost any group targets at long range. Due to its range and efficiency, the 9K58 MLRS is close to tactical missile systems. The accuracy of the complex is close to that of artillery pieces. The hit accuracy is 2-3 times higher than analogues. A salvo from a battery of six combat vehicles is quite capable of stopping the advance of a motorized rifle division.
The firing range increased from 70 to 90 km, the combat crew decreased from four to three people, the automation of the system increased, in particular, topographical mapping began to occur automatically via satellite systems. Adopted into service in 1989. The affected area is 67.2 hectares. Preparation time for a salvo is 3 minutes, reloading time is 13 minutes.
At the MAKS-2007 aerospace salon, a prototype of the 9A52-4 combat vehicle with a six-barrel package of guides as part of an artillery unit mounted on the basis of a four-axle all-wheel drive chassis of the KAMAZ family was shown for the first time. The use of such a system allows dispersed crews to conduct coordinated fire. The main goal of the modernization is to increase the mobility of the complex by reducing weight and dimensions. It is expected that this will expand export opportunities. A new version of a prototype combat vehicle, as well as a prototype transport-loading vehicle, were shown in 2009 at the REA-2009 arms exhibition in Nizhny Tagil (Sverdlovsk region).
Currently, the Splav enterprise is creating a new generation MLRS - the Tornado. Automation of firing will reach such a level that the installation will be able to leave the position even before the projectile reaches the target. There is no reliable information about it yet, but it is assumed that the Tornado will be able to hit targets both in a salvo and with single high-precision missiles, and in fact, will become a universal tactical missile system.
Combat vehicle options
-9A52
Basic version on MAZ-79111 chassis
-9A52B
Combat vehicle of the automated MLRS formation control system 9K58B
Combat vehicle on the MAZ-543M chassis of the 9K58 MLRS complex
Command combat vehicle on the MAZ-543M chassis of the modernized 9K58 MLRS complex
Combat vehicle on the Tatra chassis of the modernized 9K58 MLRS complex
-9A52-4
Lightweight MLRS combat vehicle "Kama" on a KamAZ chassis
Transport-charging machines
Transport-loading vehicle BM 9A52 on MAZ-79112 chassis
Transport-loading vehicle BM 9A52-2 on MAZ-543A chassis
Transport-loading vehicle BM 9A52-2T on Tatra chassis
Transport-loading vehicle BM 9A52-4 on KamAZ chassis
Operating countries
Azerbaijan - 30 units 9A52, as of 2016
-Algeria - 18 9A52 units, as of 2016
-Belarus:
-Ground Forces of the Republic of Belarus - 36 units 9A52, as of 2016
-Collective Defense Troops - 36 9A52 units, as of 2016
-Venezuela - 12 units 9A52, as of 2016
-Georgia - 3 Smerch complexes delivered from Ukraine
-India - 28 units 9A52, as of 2016
Kazakhstan - 6 BM-30 units, as of 2016
-PRC - produces a copy of the MLRS on its own chassis. Information for 2007.
-Kuwait - 27 units 9A52, as of 2016
-UAE - 6 units 9A52, as of 2016
-Peru - according to Motovilikha Plants OJSC, 10 Smerch MLRS were sold. According to other information, 25 MLRS were delivered in 1998 from the Republic of Belarus (possibly re-exported from Russia)
-Russia - 100 units 9A52, as of 2016
Syria - some 9A52, as of 2016
-Turkmenistan - from 6 units 9A52, as of 2016
-Ukraine - 75 units 9A52, as of 2016, a total of 95 Smerch MLRS sold
TTX
Dimensions
Weight without shells and crew, kg: 33,700
-Weight in firing position, kg: 43,700
-Length in stowed position, mm: 12,370 (9A52); 12 100 (9A52-2)
-Width in stowed position, mm: 3050
-Height in stowed position, mm: 3050
Armament
Caliber, mm: 300
-Number of guides: 12
-Minimum firing range, m: 20 thousand.
-Maximum firing range, m: 120 thousand.
-Area affected, m2: 672 thousand.
-Maximum elevation angle, degrees: 55
-Accuracy (dispersion), m: up to 0.3%
- BM calculation, people: 3
-Transfer of the system from traveling to combat position no more than, min.: 3
-Valley time, s no more than: 40
-Time to urgently leave a firing position after a salvo, no more than, min: 2.83
Mobility
Engine type: V-12 diesel D12A-525A
-Engine power, hp: 525
-Maximum speed on the highway, km/h: 60
-Highway range, km: 900
-Wheel formula: 8x8
Rocket artillery, presented today by the Tornado MLRS, is a completely different type of military. A powerful new weapon created by Russian designers and engineers is radically changing the idea of the massive use of rocket artillery in the front line. The rocket launcher can now fire not just across areas, but is a high-precision weapon capable of causing irreparable damage to the enemy in a matter of seconds.
Looking back to history
Even during the Second World War, it became known what destructive capabilities rocket artillery had. On the Soviet-German front, BM-13 multiple launch rocket launchers mounted on the chassis of a ZIS-6 truck appeared in the summer of 1941. The fire test of the new rocket artillery system took place on July 14, 1941, during stubborn battles with advancing German troops in the area of the city of Orsha. As a result of combat use, it turned out that the new Soviet weapon produced a colossal psychological effect. There was no need to talk about the high efficiency of rocket mortars, since the rockets fired from conventional metal guides did not provide the required hit accuracy. Despite obvious shortcomings in the design of the installation, rocket artillery made its contribution to achieving victory over the enemy.
Only after the war, when completely different technologies appeared, did the USSR manage to create powerful multiple launch rocket systems capable of inflicting serious damage on the enemy, both in manpower and in logistical terms. The first success came with the BM-21 Grad multiple launch rocket system, which first showed its firepower during the Soviet-Chinese armed conflict in the Far East, near Damansky Island. Having received excellent results from the work of Soviet rocket artillery, the Soviet Union decided to create more powerful multiple launch rocket systems. The power could be increased by increasing the caliber of the rockets and increasing the accuracy when firing. Following the Grad MLRS, the Uragan and Smerch rocket systems were adopted by the Soviet Army.
All three multiple launch rocket systems, which appeared during the Soviet Union, continue to be in service with the current Russian army. However, even such successful and successful developments have their own technical and technological resource limits. The main drawback that all of the listed reactive systems suffered from - low accuracy - has now been overcome. The new Tornado MLRS today has the best tactical and technical characteristics for rocket artillery. This system can easily be called a weapon of the 21st century, formidable, powerful and high-tech.
Today, when it is already 2017, the new missile launcher has passed State tests. There is no official information yet about the adoption of the new missile system. However, according to various sources, the new system continues to be produced in limited quantities. Today, across the entire armed forces of the Russian Federation, there are only 30-40 new rocket systems, which can be included in individual missile and artillery divisions. It was assumed that the new multiple launch rocket system would be able to completely replace the Grad, Uragan and Smerch MLRS in the troops by 2020, which in most cases have exhausted their technological resource.
The future of new weapons
When creating a new multiple launch rocket system, the designers decided to follow the path of unifying the main systems of the new weapon. It was planned to create two modifications at once:
- MLRS 9K51M “Tornado-G” to replace the “Grad” artillery missile systems;
- complex 9K515 “Tornado-S”, to replace the Smerch combat missile systems.
In the first case, we are talking about rocket artillery equipped with 122-mm rockets. The second option involved the creation of a rocket launcher capable of firing 300 mm caliber rockets.
Information that there is also a third version of the Uragan-U MLRS has not been confirmed. Probably, the confusion arose due to the similarity of the name with the Ural car brand, a modification of which was called “Tornado”.
The main innovation that distinguishes the new weapon from its old counterparts is the presence of an automated fire control system (AFCS) “Kapustnik-BM”. In addition, the missile complex received a more advanced transport base. The installation is equipped with new unguided rocket projectiles of 112 and 300 mm caliber.
The maximum flight range of 300 mm caliber rockets is 120 km. This is significantly more than the data possessed by the Smerch missiles. New unguided missiles can be equipped with high-explosive fragmentation or cluster warheads. It is possible to modernize the rocket engines of the missiles, which will increase the flight range to 200 km. During a full salvo, all 40 fired Tornado-G MLRS shells can cover an area of 65 hectares. A missile and artillery division can accordingly cover an area 3-4 times larger.
The system can fire in one volley or in single shots, which indicates the versatility of the system.
Design Features
Like its predecessors, the new MLRS has tubular guides assembled into a single block. On the new Tornado-G vehicle, the number of guides was 30 pieces, two blocks of 12 launch tubes each. For the Tornado-S system, the number of guides is 12 pieces, six pipes in two blocks. Significant changes have also occurred in terms of maintenance of the missile system. The crew of the Tornado MLRS was reduced to 2 people. Full automation of the process reduced the control time allocated for deployment, even taking into account a poorly prepared position. It should be noted that the launcher received a new loading mechanism. Previously, loading of launch tubes was carried out using a crane, one rocket into each tube. The entire loading process could take 15-20 minutes.
In a modern installation, the loading process by the crew is carried out in a matter of minutes. Reload speed is key for this weapon system. The shorter the time interval between salvoes, the higher the probability of fire hitting targets. A delay in reloading may leave the missile launcher vulnerable to a retaliatory strike.
The missile system is installed on the Ural automobile chassis and on MAZ-543M and Kamaz tractors, which have increased cross-country ability. Both variants have completely new remote control guidance systems, thanks to which projectiles are aimed at the target inside the launcher cabin. Manual aiming mode can only be used in exceptional cases. The operator's main job is to control the position of the missile system in relation to the location of the target. The GLONASS navigation satellite system is a mandatory attribute of the new missile and artillery complex. Thanks to its presence, the accuracy of a missile salvo has increased.
Our own GLONASS satellite navigation system, the development of which began back in 1982, can significantly improve the pointing accuracy of modern weapon systems. Today, more than two dozen satellites deployed in orbit, together with relay satellites, provide high accuracy in determining coordinates. Modern missile weapons are equipped with receivers that provide control over compliance with target designations.
Operating principle
The artillery missile system operates on the following principle. After obtaining the exact parameters of the target, it is linked to the coordinate system. The collection of such data is carried out by aerial and space reconnaissance, which has optical and radio engineering means of data collection. In the current conditions, combat work is being carried out to train personnel in the methodology of collecting data on targets on their own, without the involvement of funds and components of the Military Space Forces of the Russian Federation.
The emphasis is on the use of unmanned aerial vehicles for these purposes. By making a preliminary launch of a drone into the target area, the combat crew will be able to obtain the necessary information about the target and coordinates after some time. After receiving target data, the necessary parameters are transmitted to each launcher, which has already taken its pre-launch position.
Further fire control is carried out using the combat control and communications hardware complex, which replaced the conventional radio station, guidance and fire control systems. Both the first and second systems have a single computer information base, which is used to integrate all computational processes regarding the ballistics of a flying missile.
In other words, new modern electronic equipment allows you to accurately aim a missile at a target in a matter of minutes, prepare it for launch and control the flight of the missile during autonomous flight.
The electronics and navigation system adjust the control surfaces taking into account meteorological factors. As a result, the missile during flight retains all target designation parameters specified before launch.
Possessing similar characteristics, the Russian new-generation Tornado multiple launch rocket system is significantly superior to its outdated Soviet counterparts, the BM-21 Grad and the Smerch MLRS. The domestic missile and artillery system is not inferior to foreign analogues, which also have an automated loading mechanism and satellite control over the flight of military projectiles.
In the current conditions, work is underway to improve the warhead of the MLRS. It is planned to equip the missiles with radio-electronic filling, used for reconnaissance purposes as a target designator. According to some reports, a missile system capable of firing cruise missiles can be deployed on the basis of the Tornado-S MLRS.
Soviet and Russian 300 mm multiple launch rocket system.
History of creation
The Smerch multiple launch rocket system was created in the USSR by specialists from TulgosNIItochmash (then NPO Splav, and now FSUE State Research and Production Enterprise Splav, Tula), as well as related enterprises. Before its development in 1990 by China, the WS-1 was the longest-range system.
The artillery unit is mounted on a modified MAZ-79111 or MAZ-543M truck chassis. For India, a variant of the combat vehicle was developed based on the Tatra 816 6ZVR8T10x10.1 R/41T off-road truck.
Preparing the Smerch for battle after receiving target designation takes three minutes; a full salvo is fired within 38 seconds. After firing, the battery is ready for marching in one minute, which allows you to quickly escape from the enemy's retaliatory strike.
Ammunition
-9M55K
300-mm rocket with a 9N139 cassette warhead with 9N235 fragmentation warheads. Contains 72 combat elements (BE), carrying 6912 ready-made heavy fragments designed to destroy unarmored vehicles, and 25920 ready-made light fragments intended to destroy enemy personnel in places where they are concentrated; in total - up to 32832 fragments.
The affected area of the element is 300-1100 m2. Armor penetration at a distance of 10 m is 5-7 mm, at a distance of 100 m - 1-3 mm. 16 shells contain 525,312 finished fragments. Most effective in open areas, steppes and deserts. Serial production of 9M55K (and 9M55K-IN - with BE inert equipment) began in 1987. Delivered to Algeria and India.
-9M55K1
A rocket with a 9N142 cluster warhead (KGCh) with self-aiming combat elements (SPBE). The cassette warhead carries 5 SPBE "Motiv-3M" (9N349), equipped with dual-band infrared coordinators that search for the target at an angle of 30 degrees. Each of them can penetrate at an angle of 30 degrees. from a height of 100 meters, 70 mm armor. Suitable for use in open areas, steppes and deserts; use in forests is almost impossible; operation in the city is difficult. Designed to destroy groups of armored vehicles and tanks from above. Tests completed in 1994 and accepted in 1996. By order of the Minister of Defense No. 372 of October 13, 1996, the 9M55K1 projectile was adopted by the Russian Army. Delivered to Algeria.
A rocket with a KGC 9N539 for anti-tank mining of terrain. Each projectile contains 25 anti-tank mines “PTM-3” with an electronic proximity fuse; in just one salvo of the installation there are 300 anti-tank mines. Designed for operational remote placement of anti-tank minefields in front of enemy military equipment units located at the attack line, or in the area where they are accumulated.
-9M55K5
A rocket with a KGC 9N176 with cumulative fragmentation combat elements (KOBE). The cassette warhead contains 646 combat elements with a length of 118 mm, or 588 elements with a length of 128 mm, weighing 240 g each, and having a cylindrical shape. Elements with a length of 118 mm are capable of normally penetrating up to 120 mm of homogeneous armor, and elements with a length of 128 mm can penetrate up to 160 mm. Maximum effective against motorized infantry on the march, located in armored personnel carriers and infantry fighting vehicles. A total of 12 shells contain 7752 or 7056 combat elements. Designed to destroy open and hidden manpower and lightly armored military equipment.
A rocket with a detachable high-explosive fragmentation warhead. Designed to destroy manpower, unarmored and lightly armored military equipment in places where they are concentrated, to destroy command posts, communication centers and infrastructure facilities. It was adopted by the Russian Army in 1992, and has been in mass production since 1999. Delivered to India.
-9M55S
Missile with thermobaric warhead 9M216 "Excitement". The explosion of one shell creates a thermal field with a diameter of at least 25 m (depending on the terrain). The field temperature is over +1000 degrees C, the lifetime is at least 1.4 s.
Designed to destroy manpower, open and hidden in open fortifications and unarmored and lightly armored military equipment. It is most effective in the steppe and desert, in a city located on non-hilly terrain. Testing of the ammunition was completed in 2004. By Order of the President of the Russian Federation No. 1288 of October 7, 2004, the 9M55S was adopted by the Russian Army.
-9M528
A rocket with a high-explosive fragmentation warhead. Contact fuse, instant and delayed action. Designed to destroy manpower, unarmored and lightly armored military equipment in places where they are concentrated, destroying command posts, communication centers and infrastructure facilities.
An experimental missile with a small-sized reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) of the "Tipchak" type.
Designed to conduct operational reconnaissance of targets within twenty minutes. In the target area, the UAV descends by parachute, scanning the situation and transmitting information on the coordinates of reconnaissance targets to the control complex at a distance of up to 70 km, for quickly making a decision to destroy the reconnaissance object.
Ammunition developments
Minimum range 40 km, maximum range 120 km. Length 7600 mm, total weight 820 kg, warhead weight 150 kg, explosive weight 70 kg, loaded with 500 pieces of finished fragments weighing 50 g.
Options
The long-range multiple launch rocket system is designed to hit almost any group targets at long range. Due to its range and efficiency, the 9K58 MLRS is close to tactical missile systems. The accuracy of the complex is close to that of artillery pieces. The hit accuracy is 2-3 times higher than analogues. A salvo from a battery of six combat vehicles is quite capable of stopping the advance of a motorized rifle division.
The firing range increased from 70 to 90 km, the combat crew decreased from four to three people, the automation of the system increased, in particular, topographical mapping began to occur automatically via satellite systems. Adopted into service in 1989. The affected area is 67.2 hectares. Preparation time for a salvo is 3 minutes, reloading time is 13 minutes.
At the MAKS-2007 aerospace salon, a prototype of the 9A52-4 combat vehicle with a six-barrel package of guides as part of an artillery unit mounted on the basis of a four-axle all-wheel drive chassis of the KAMAZ family was shown for the first time. The use of such a system allows dispersed crews to conduct coordinated fire. The main goal of the modernization is to increase the mobility of the complex by reducing weight and dimensions. It is expected that this will expand export opportunities. A new version of a prototype combat vehicle, as well as a prototype transport-loading vehicle, were shown in 2009 at the REA-2009 arms exhibition in Nizhny Tagil (Sverdlovsk region).
Currently, the Splav enterprise is creating a new generation MLRS - the Tornado. Automation of firing will reach such a level that the installation will be able to leave the position even before the projectile reaches the target. There is no reliable information about it yet, but it is assumed that the Tornado will be able to hit targets both in a salvo and with single high-precision missiles, and in fact, will become a universal tactical missile system.
Combat vehicle options
-9A52
Basic version on MAZ-79111 chassis
-9A52B
Combat vehicle of the automated MLRS formation control system 9K58B
Combat vehicle on the MAZ-543M chassis of the 9K58 MLRS complex
Command combat vehicle on the MAZ-543M chassis of the modernized 9K58 MLRS complex
Combat vehicle on the Tatra chassis of the modernized 9K58 MLRS complex
-9A52-4
Lightweight MLRS combat vehicle "Kama" on a KamAZ chassis
Transport-charging machines
Transport-loading vehicle BM 9A52 on MAZ-79112 chassis
Transport-loading vehicle BM 9A52-2 on MAZ-543A chassis
Transport-loading vehicle BM 9A52-2T on Tatra chassis
Transport-loading vehicle BM 9A52-4 on KamAZ chassis
Operating countries
Azerbaijan - 30 units 9A52, as of 2016
-Algeria - 18 9A52 units, as of 2016
-Belarus:
-Ground Forces of the Republic of Belarus - 36 units 9A52, as of 2016
-Collective Defense Troops - 36 9A52 units, as of 2016
-Venezuela - 12 units 9A52, as of 2016
-Georgia - 3 Smerch complexes delivered from Ukraine
-India - 28 units 9A52, as of 2016
Kazakhstan - 6 BM-30 units, as of 2016
-PRC - produces a copy of the MLRS on its own chassis. Information for 2007.
-Kuwait - 27 units 9A52, as of 2016
-UAE - 6 units 9A52, as of 2016
-Peru - according to Motovilikha Plants OJSC, 10 Smerch MLRS were sold. According to other information, 25 MLRS were delivered in 1998 from the Republic of Belarus (possibly re-exported from Russia)
-Russia - 100 units 9A52, as of 2016
Syria - some 9A52, as of 2016
-Turkmenistan - from 6 units 9A52, as of 2016
-Ukraine - 75 units 9A52, as of 2016, a total of 95 Smerch MLRS sold
TTX
Dimensions
Weight without shells and crew, kg: 33,700
-Weight in firing position, kg: 43,700
-Length in stowed position, mm: 12,370 (9A52); 12 100 (9A52-2)
-Width in stowed position, mm: 3050
-Height in stowed position, mm: 3050
Armament
Caliber, mm: 300
-Number of guides: 12
-Minimum firing range, m: 20 thousand.
-Maximum firing range, m: 120 thousand.
-Area affected, m2: 672 thousand.
-Maximum elevation angle, degrees: 55
-Accuracy (dispersion), m: up to 0.3%
- BM calculation, people: 3
-Transfer of the system from traveling to combat position no more than, min.: 3
-Valley time, s no more than: 40
-Time to urgently leave a firing position after a salvo, no more than, min: 2.83
Mobility
Engine type: V-12 diesel D12A-525A
-Engine power, hp: 525
-Maximum speed on the highway, km/h: 60
-Highway range, km: 900
-Wheel formula: 8x8
Artillery of Russia and the world, guns photos, videos, pictures watch online, along with other states, introduced the most significant innovations - the transformation of a smooth-bore gun, loaded from the muzzle, into a rifled gun, loaded from the breech (lock). The use of streamlined projectiles and various types of fuses with adjustable settings for the response time; more powerful propellants such as cordite, which appeared in Britain before the First World War; the development of rolling systems, which made it possible to increase the rate of fire and relieved the gun crew from the hard work of rolling into the firing position after each shot; connection in one assembly of a projectile, propellant charge and fuse; the use of shrapnel shells, which, after the explosion, scatter small steel particles in all directions.
Russian artillery, capable of firing large shells, acutely highlighted the problem of weapon durability. In 1854, during the Crimean War, Sir William Armstrong, a British hydraulic engineer, proposed a method of scooping wrought iron gun barrels by first twisting iron rods and then welding them together using a forging method. The gun barrel was additionally reinforced with wrought iron rings. Armstrong created a company where they made guns of several sizes. One of the most famous was his 12-pounder rifled gun with a 7.6 cm (3 in) barrel and a screw lock mechanism.
The artillery of the Second World War (WWII), in particular the Soviet Union, probably had the largest potential among European armies. At the same time, the Red Army experienced the purges of Commander-in-Chief Joseph Stalin and endured the difficult Winter War with Finland at the end of the decade. During this period, Soviet design bureaus adhered to a conservative approach to technology.
The first modernization efforts came with the improvement of the 76.2 mm M00/02 field gun in 1930, which included improved ammunition and replacement barrels on parts of the gun fleet, the new version of the gun was called the M02/30. Six years later, the 76.2 mm M1936 field gun appeared, with a carriage from the 107 mm.
Heavy artilleryall armies, and quite rare materials from the time of Hitler’s blitzkrieg, whose army crossed the Polish border smoothly and without delay. The German army was the most modern and best equipped army in the world. The Wehrmacht artillery operated in close cooperation with the infantry and aviation, trying to quickly occupy territory and deprive the Polish army of communication routes. The world shuddered upon learning of a new armed conflict in Europe.
The artillery of the USSR in the positional conduct of combat operations on the Western Front in the last war and the horror in the trenches of the military leaders of some countries created new priorities in the tactics of using artillery. They believed that in the second global conflict of the 20th century, mobile firepower and precision fire would be the decisive factors.