M270 MLRS 227mm.

Technical Data

• Armament

  The MLRS launcher unit comprises an M270 Launcher loaded with 12 rockets, packaged in two six-rocket pods. The launcher, which is mounted on a stretched Bradley chassis, is a highly automated self-loading and self-aiming system. It contains a fire control computer that integrates the vehicle and rocket-launching operations. The rockets can be fired individually or in ripples of two to twelve. Accuracy is maintained in all firing modes because the computer re-aims the launcher between rounds. The basic MLRS tactical rocket warhead contains 644 M77 munitions, which are dispensed above the target in mid-air. The dual-purpose bomblets are armed during freefall and a simple drag ribbon orients the bomblets for impact. Each MLRS launcher can deliver almost 8,000 munitions in less than 60 seconds at ranges exceeding 32km. MLRS also fires the long-range Lockheed Martin Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) guided missiles. The ATACMS family includes the Block 1, Block 1A, and Block 1A Unitary missiles. Block 1, which was used during Operation Desert Storm, carries 950 baseball-sized M74 sub-munitions to ranges exceeding 165km. The Block IA missile extends the range to more than 300km by reducing the sub-munition payload and adding GPS guidance. The Block 1A unitary missile, with a single-burst warhead, was first deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in March/April 2003. The M270A1 program includes two major upgrades to the current M270 launcher. Current plans for improvement to the system include the improved Fire Control System (IFCS), the Improved Mechanical Launch System (ILMS), and the extended range rocket (ER-MRLS).

• Design and protection

  The MLRS M270 self-propelled launcher vehicle is a stretched version of the American M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle. The Launcher Loader Module, mounted on the rear of the vehicle hull consists of a base, turret, and cage. To the front on the hull, is mounted a fully enclosed cab. This is protected against small arms fire and shell fragments by aluminum armor and louvered windows. The fire control panel is in the crew cabin. It is linked by wires to the fire control unit in the launcher. This sets off the rockets or missiles. The stabilizer checks the tilt or angle of the vehicle and the launcher's aim. The computer adjusts the aim after a rocket or missile fires in case the tilt has changed. The fire control system can be operated from inside the cabin by the M270's gunner or receive target information from the central command by radio.

• Mobility

  The M270 MLRS uses a derivative chassis of the armored infantry fighting vehicle Bradley named M993. The suspension system includes torsion bars, and on each side, there are six dual rubber-tired road wheels with the drive sprocket at the front and the idler at the rear. There are two track-return rollers that support the inside of the track only and one double roller. Hydraulic shock absorbers are fitted to the first, second, third, and sixth roadwheel stations. The MLRS is equipped with the VTA-903Y engine from Cummins Engine Co of Colombus, Indiana. The hydro-mechanical transmission HMPT-500 from Lockheed Martine provides three-speed ranges. The MLRS M270 can run at a maximum speed of 64 km/h with a maximum range of 483 km.

• Combat Equipment

  An overpressure ventilation system prevents rocket fumes from entering the cab and the vehicle is also equipped with a filtration unit to protect the crew from chemical, biological, and radiological particles. Equipment capabilities permit a reduced crew, or even one person, to accomplish a complete fire mission including the loading and unloading operations. The M270 MLRS can be readily transported to the area of operations, for example by the C-5 transporters aircraft or by train.