9A52-4 Tornado

   The 9A52-4 multiple launch rocket system may be Russia's answer to the US HIMARS. The 9A52-4 was first revealed in 2007. It is a lightweight and universal version of the Smerch MLRS. The 9A52-4 is more strategically and tactically mobile, but mobility comes at a cost of reduced firepower. This artillery rocket system is aimed both at the Russian Army and export customers.

   A universal multiple launch rocket system concept offers advantages of faster reloading and simpler logistics. It is capable of firing existing types of rockets without special preparation or changes.

   The 9A52-4 Tornado is fitted with a single container with six launching tubes for 300-mm rockets. It can fire all current Smerch rockets, including HE-FRAG, incendiary, fuel-air explosive, cluster with anti-personnel or anti-tank mines. Cluster rounds may also carry self-targeting anti-tank munitions. A standard rocket is 7.6 m long and weights 800 kg. Maximum range of fire is 70 km with ordinary and 90 km with extended-range rockets. Rockets are fitted with range and direction correction system for better accuracy. A full salvo of this rocket system covers area of 32 hectares.

   Two types of containers are available. One of them is factory-fitted and sealed. It is used to store, transport and launch rockets. The whole container is disposable. It is replaced after all rockets are launched. Another is an open-type, reusable launcher pack. It is reloaded with individual rockets by a reloading vehicle in field conditions.

   Launching pods with smaller 122-mm Grad and 220-mm Uragan rockets are currently under development.

   The 9A52-4 multiple launch rocket system uses chassis of KamAZ-63501 8x8 military truck. Vehicle is powered by a KamAZ-740.50.360 turbocharged diesel engine, developing 360 hp. This heavy-duty truck has good cross country mobility. Artillery system has climatic operation range from -40°C to +50°C.

   A crew of two men prepares system for firing within 3 minutes, without leaving cabin. The launch vehicle is fitted with automated laying and fire control system. It is also fitted with autonomous satellite navigation and positioning system. A launch vehicle exchanges positioning and firing data with command vehicle. Rockets can be launched directly form the cab, or remotely form the vehicle. The 9A52-4 can launch single rocket, partial ripple or full salvo.

   A 9A52-4 launching vehicle with an open-type reusable launcher pack is supported by a 9T234-4 reloading vehicle. It is based on the same KamAZ-63501 8x8 wheeled chassis, but has some differences. It is fitted with a crane and carries 6 individual reload rockets. The 9A52-4 launching vehicle is reloaded within 8 minutes. Reloading usually takes place away from firing position, to avoid counter-battery fire. No information is available on a reloading vehicle, which transports and reloads sealed containers.

Variants

   9A53 Tornado, based on the MZKT-7930 8x8 wheeled chassis. It might become a replacement for the ageing BM-27 Uragan and Smerch MLRS. It is worth mentioning that production of the BM-27 wheeled chassis ended some years ago. The Tornado carries two launching pods for 220-mm or 300-mm rockets.

   Some of these pictures and updated information was sent us by SERGEI V. GUROV

   Thank you Sergei!

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9T234-4 reloading vehicle

9A53 Tornado MLRS mounted on the MZKT 8x8 chassis