Russian Brigade retrofits MT-LB with Grad-1 MLRS to strike Ukrainian Forces in Kursk region.

On August 26, 2024, the "Veterans" Reconnaissance and Assault Brigade of the Russian Volunteer Corps adapted the Soviet-era MT-LB, a multi-purpose light-armored tractor, into a platform for the 9K55 "Grad-1" multiple launch rocket system (MLRS). This modification allows the MT-LB to be used in operations in the Kursk region, targeting positions held by the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
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Originally mounted on wheeled vehicles like the ZIL-131 truck, integrating the Grad-1 MLRS onto the MT-LB chassis allows it to operate in areas where wheeled vehicles may face limitations, particularly in the challenging terrain of the Kursk region. (Picture source: Russian MoD)

The MT-LB, also known by its nickname "motolyga," was originally developed in 1964 and manufactured at the Kharkiv Tractor Plant. Initially designed for transporting cargo, personnel, and serving as an artillery tractor, its basic configuration includes a steel rolled hull with a transmission and control compartment at the front, an engine compartment in the middle, and a cargo area at the rear. The vehicle has a crew of two and can carry up to 11 additional personnel. Its tracked chassis provides high mobility, enabling it to operate in challenging terrains such as snow-covered regions, swamps, and rugged landscapes.

Over the years, the MT-LB has been deployed in multiple conflicts, including the Soviet-Afghan War, and has been used by various post-Soviet states in regional conflicts. Beyond its military applications, the MT-LB has also been employed in civilian roles, particularly in the Arctic and Siberia, where its ability to traverse difficult terrain has made it valuable for tasks like transportation and exploration.

Beyond its military applications, the MT-LB has also been employed in civilian roles, particularly in the Arctic and Siberia, where its ability to traverse difficult terrain has made it valuable for tasks like transportation and exploration. (Picture source: Russian social media)

The MT-LB has remained in service for decades, with more than 55,000 units produced since its introduction. It continues to be used not only by Russia but also by several other countries, including Ukraine, Belarus, and Iraq. In the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the MT-LB has also been adapted for unconventional roles, including conversion into an unmanned ground vehicle loaded with explosives for direct attacks on enemy positions.

In this latest variant, the MT-LB has been equipped with the 9K55 "Grad-1" multiple launch rocket system (MLRS), a system developed during the Cold War to provide fire support at the regimental level. The 9K55 "Grad-1" is designed to launch 122mm unguided rockets from 36 tubes arranged in four rows. Originally mounted on wheeled vehicles like the ZIL-131 truck, integrating this system onto the MT-LB chassis allows it to operate in areas where wheeled vehicles may face limitations, particularly in the challenging terrain of the Kursk region.

The 9K55 "Grad-1" system is intended to target enemy personnel, equipment, and fortifications within a range of up to 15 kilometers. It is capable of firing various types of munitions, including high-explosive fragmentation rounds, incendiary rounds, and cluster munitions. By mounting this system on the MT-LB, the Russian military has enhanced its ability to engage targets in areas where mobility and terrain present significant challenges.

The 9K55 "Grad-1" system is intended to target enemy personnel, equipment, and fortifications within a range of up to 15 kilometers. It is capable of firing various types of munitions, including high-explosive fragmentation rounds, incendiary rounds, and cluster munitions. (Picture source: Russian social media)