Dutch Army receive first PULS rocket launcher systems from Elbit Systems.

As reported by Venator News on February 19, 2024, the Dutch Armed Forces recently received the first two Elbit PULS rocket launcher systems from the Israeli company Elbit Systems. The procurement plan involves acquiring 20 PULS systems, which will be organized into two operational batteries. Each battery will consist of eight rocket launcher systems, divided into two platoons.
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The 20 Dutch PULS systems will be organized into two operational batteries. Each battery will consist of eight rocket launcher systems, divided into two platoons. (Picture source: Venator News)

An additional four PULS systems will be reserved for training purposes and as backups, illustrating a comprehensive approach to readiness within the Dutch military. These PULS rocket artillery systems are intended to complement the existing armament of the 43 Mechanized Brigade and the 13 Light Brigade, providing them with enhanced firepower capabilities. This integration will create a flexible Artillery Division, combining PzH2000NL self-propelled howitzers with the newly acquired PULS rocket artillery systems.

One notable feature of the PULS system is its adaptability, demonstrated by its ability to be mounted on various truck chassis. While the current Dutch systems are mounted on Tatra 815-7 Force 6x6 trucks, plans are in place to transfer them to Scania Gryphus trucks equipped with armored cabins. Although the delivery schedule for the systems is clear, specific details regarding the types of rockets to be utilized by the Netherlands remain undisclosed. However, it is expected that this information will become available as deliveries progress, with completion anticipated by 2026.

The Scania Gryphus, also known as Scania XT or Scania XT Gryphus, is set to serve as the operational truck for the Dutch Armed Forces in the future. Manufactured by the Swedish company Scania and assembled at their production center in Zwolle, the Gryphus is derived from the Scania XT series, which debuted in 2017. It measures 10.80 meters in length, 2.55 meters in width, and 3.715 meters in height, with an empty weight exceeding 18,800 kilograms. Powered by a 6-cylinder inline turbocharged engine generating 500 horsepower at 1,600 rpm, it offers a range of 850 kilometers. The Gryphus serves various branches of the Dutch military, including the Royal Army, Navy, Air Force, and Royal Military Police, along with the Defense Support Command and other affiliated units.

As reported by Army Recognition on May 18, 2023, the procurement of the Elbit PULS rocket artillery systems is part of a €305 million contract signed between Elbit Systems and the Netherlands. This contract entails the delivery of 20 PULS MLRS over the next five years, with the initial four systems to be delivered on Tatra Force (815-7) 6x6 chassis for training and reserve purposes. Subsequently, the remaining 16 systems, already mounted on Scania chassis, will be divided into two batteries, each with two platoons, equating to four PULS systems per platoon.

The Precision Fires Launcher System (PULS), developed by Elbit Systems, is a mobile artillery rocket system recognized for its precision and flexibility. This system, presenting potential benefits for contemporary military operations, was sold to various countries. Notably, Spain has expressed interest in the PULS under the High Mobility Rocket Launcher System (SILAM) program, along with Germany and Denmark within Europe.

Equipped with two pods, each intended for specific rocket types, the PULS launcher enhances its versatility. These rocket variants include the Accular 122mm (featuring 18 rockets with a range of up to 35 kilometers), the Accular 160mm (offering 10 rockets with a range of up to 40 kilometers), EXTRA (comprising 4 rockets with a range of up to 150 kilometers), and the Predator Hawk (including 2 rockets with a range of 300 kilometers). This diverse range of rocket options enables the system to address various threats, from close-range tactical targets to distant strategic objectives.

Designed for rapid mission execution, the PULS system can initiate and complete a standard firing mission in less than one minute. This quick response time ensures timely fire support on the battlefield. Furthermore, its adaptability allows seamless integration with various military vehicles, whether tracked or wheeled, with minimal modifications required. This adaptability could potentially reduce implementation and maintenance costs, providing a practical solution for achieving advanced rocket and missile launching capabilities.

While the current Dutch systems are mounted on Tatra 815-7 Force 6x6 trucks, plans are in place to transfer them to Scania Gryphus trucks equipped with armored cabins. (Picture source: Venator News)