Ukrainian Forces destroy new variant of Russian BM-27 Uragan MLRS in Belgorod.

On July 30, 2024, Igor Sydorenko reported that Ukrainian forces successfully destroyed a new version of the BM-27 Uragan multiple rocket launcher mounted on the recently developed BAZ-69092 three-axle chassis. This event occurred on June 16, 2024, in the Belgorod region of the Russian Federation, a site that has been used by Russian forces for launching missile attacks on Ukrainian positions.
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Despite ongoing modernization efforts, reports indicate that at least 87 Russian BM-27 Uragan MLRS have been lost since the conflict with Ukraine began, with approximately 150 vehicles remaining in service as of 2023. (Picture source: Facebook/Igor Sydorenko)

The operation began when an aerial reconnaissance drone from the 92nd Separate Mechanized Brigade (92 OShBr) identified the Uragan system in a deployed position during a routine flight. After the system’s coordinates were confirmed, Ukrainian forces deployed an attack drone, which struck the Uragan with an anti-aircraft munition. The explosion led to a fire that resulted in the complete destruction of the system.

Earlier in the year, on April 16, 2024, the Russian Ministry of Defense released footage of this updated BM-27 Uragan 220mm multiple launch rocket system, which had been mounted on the new BAZ-69092 platform. The introduction of the BAZ-69092 chassis represents a departure from the older ZIL-135LM 8x8 truck chassis that was traditionally used with the Uragan system.

The shift to this new platform is part of a broader modernization initiative within the Russian Army, aimed at upgrading older military equipment and improving artillery capabilities. This modernization is particularly relevant as the Russian Army seeks to replace the BM-27 Uragan systems, which have been in service since the late 1970s.

The introduction of the BAZ-69092 chassis represents a departure from the older ZIL-135LM 8x8 truck chassis that was traditionally used with the Uragan system. (Picture source: Russian social media)

The BAZ-69092 chassis provides logistical and operational advantages, including the ability to carry weapons systems weighing up to 13 tons. This chassis is in line with Russian efforts to prioritize domestically produced military equipment. The development of the BAZ-69092 began in the early 1990s, driven by the need to standardize military vehicles within the Russian armed forces. The dissolution of the Soviet Union had disrupted supply chains, particularly for military components manufactured outside of Russia.

The BAZ-69092 is part of a broader family of vehicles designed for various military roles and includes features like a welded ladder-type frame, a cab-over-engine design, and a 450-horsepower multi-fuel turbocharged diesel engine. This chassis is also used for other military vehicles in Russia, including missile launchers and radar systems.

Traditionally mounted on a ZIL-135 8x8 truck chassis, the BM-27 is equipped with a 16-tube launcher for 220mm rockets, capable of targeting areas up to 70 kilometers away. (Picture source: Russian social media)

The BM-27 Uragan, or "Hurricane," is a self-propelled multiple rocket launcher system that has been operational since the late 1970s. It was traditionally mounted on a ZIL-135 8x8 truck chassis and is equipped with a 16-tube launcher for 220mm rockets, capable of targeting areas up to 70 kilometers away. The system can deliver a full salvo in under 20 seconds, making it effective for engaging large areas.

Despite ongoing modernization efforts, the loss of the Uragan system on June 16 highlights the operational challenges faced by Russian forces. Reports indicate that at least 87 units have been lost since the conflict began, with approximately 150 vehicles remaining in service as of 2023. This context underscores the importance of replacing these systems with more advanced technologies like the Tornado-S, which is expected to serve as the foundation for future robotic multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) developments.