9A52-2T Smerch

   The 9A52-2T Smerch multiple launch rocket system was revealed in 2001. It is an upgraded variant of the Smerch MLRS. In 2005 a contract was signed to deliver 38 units of the Smerch MLRS and associated vehicles to the Indian Army. A second contract was signed in 2007 for a second batch of 24 units. It is worth mentioning that Smerch MLRS sales to India have been under negotiations since the late 1990s. Indian rocket systems are based on locally-built Tatra 10x10 chassis to reduce unit costs. Deliveries to the Indian Army commenced in 2008.

   The 9A52-2T has 12 tubes for 300-mm rockets. A standard rocket is 7.6 m long and weights 800 kg. Rockets are fitted with a range and direction correction system for improved accuracy. This multiple launch rocket system fires a variety of rockets, including HE-FRAG, incendiary, thermobaric, cluster munitions with anti-tank or anti-personnel submunitions, or smart guided anti-tank munitions. Firing range is 20 - 70 km. It is also compatible with extended range (90 km) rockets, developed for the Russian Smerch-M. A full salvo of this artilley rocket system covers area of 67 hectares. A crew of three prepares the MLRS for firing within 2 minutes.

   The 9A52-2T multiple launch rocket system uses 10x10 Tatra 816 truck chassis. Vehicle is powered by a German Deutz BF8M1015C diesel engine, developing 544 hp. It meets EURO II emission requirements. This truck employs a proven Tatra chassis concept.

   Reloading of the Smerch is assisted by reloading vehicle, based on the same Tatra 816 chassis. Reloading vehicle is fitted with a crane and carries 12 reload rockets. Usually every Smerch MLRS unit is supported by one reloading vehicle.
 

   Updated information on this article was sent us by SERGEI V. GUROV

   Thank you Sergei!

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