Country of origin |
North Korea |
Entered service |
2019 - 2020 |
Crew |
3 |
Dimensions and weight |
Weight |
25 ~ 30 t |
Length |
~ 10 m |
Width |
2.5
m |
Height |
~ 3.5 m |
Armament |
Caliber |
500 ~ 600 mm |
Number of tubes |
4 |
Rocket weight |
? |
Warhead weight |
? |
Firing range |
~ 400 km |
Full salvo duration |
up to 60 s |
Reloading time |
around 20 minutes |
Mobility |
Engine |
diesel |
Engine power |
~ 340 hp |
Maximum road speed |
~ 80 km/h |
Range |
~ 650 km |
Maneuverability |
Gradient |
60% |
Side slope |
30% |
Vertical step |
~ 0.5 m |
Trench |
~ 2 m |
Fording |
~ 1.4 m |
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Recently a
new heavy artillery rocket system emerged in North Korea. Some
sources refer it as KN-25, although this is provisional name. Its
actual designation is different. This system uses extremely large
guided artillery rockets, that are around 500-600 mm in diameter. So
far it is the most powerful multiple launch system, ever fielded by
North Korea. A number of test launches were made in 2019 and 2020.
In 2020 a couple of these rocket systems were demonstrated during a
military parade. This indicates that the system being produced in
quantity and is in service with the
North Korean military.
This North
Korean artillery system uses very large guided artillery rockets.
These could be one of the largest artillery rockets of their type
ever fielded by any other country. The KN-25
can be even seen as a short-range ballistic missile system. During
test launches rockets of this new North Korean system demonstrated a
range of 240 km. It is estimated that these rockets have a range of
up to 400 km. If these estimates are correct it means that this
rocket system covers most territory of South Korea. Rockets use
inertial and satellite navigation system for guidance.
This new
artillery rocket system is based on a modified Tatra's chassis. It
is clearly seen by a unique Tatra's independent suspension. It could
be a heavily modified version of the
Tatra
T815 Kolos military truck.
The launcher
vehicle carries 4 rockets, that are factory fitted and sealed in
containers. Intervals between launches could be up to 20 seconds.
Containers with rockets are reloaded by a crane.
Vehicle has
an armored cab which provides protection against small arms fire and
artillery shell splinters. Also it protects the crew against exhaust
jet developed by the rocket engine. There is a roof hatch with a
ring mount.
Vehicle is
powered by a diesel engine. It has 8x8
configuration and is fitted with a central tyre inflation system.
The launcher vehicle
can travel off road.
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