IDET 2025: Czech Excalibur Army’s RM-70 Vampire MLRS enhances NATO mobility and precision firepower.

On May 28, 2025, at IDET 2025 in Brno, Czech Republic, Excalibur Army unveiled the RM-70 Vampire, a multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) that signifies a significant advancement in NATO's artillery capabilities. This modernized system, rooted in Cold War-era designs, now boasts enhanced mobility, digital integration, and precision strike capabilities, addressing the evolving demands of contemporary warfare. The RM-70 Vampire's debut underscores the Czech defense industry's commitment to innovation and its strategic role within NATO's defense framework. 
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The unveiling of the RM-70 Vampire at IDET 2025 represents a significant milestone in artillery modernization, blending legacy design with cutting-edge technology (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The RM-70 Vampire MLRS is an advanced iteration of the original RM-70 system, featuring a 40-tube launcher capable of firing 122mm rockets. Mounted on the robust Tatra T-815-7 8x8 chassis, the system offers enhanced off-road mobility and crew protection through its armored cabin. The Vampire can deliver a full salvo of 40 rockets in under 30 seconds, with a rapid reload capability facilitated by an automated system carrying an additional 40 rockets. Its digital fire control system ensures seamless integration with modern command and control networks, enhancing targeting accuracy and operational efficiency. The system's adaptability allows for the use of various rocket types, including extended-range and cargo warheads, extending its operational reach and versatility.

The RM-70 Vampire's lineage traces back to the Soviet BM-21 Grad, with the original RM-70 developed in Czechoslovakia during the 1970s. The Vampire variant emerged in 2015 through a collaboration between Excalibur Army and the CSG Group, aiming to modernize the legacy system with contemporary technologies. Since its introduction, the Vampire has seen deployment in various conflicts, notably in Ukraine, where it has been utilized for its rapid deployment and high-volume fire capabilities.

Compared to its predecessors and contemporaries, the RM-70 Vampire stands out for its combination of mobility, firepower, and digital integration. While systems like the BM-21 Grad offer similar rocket calibers, the Vampire's automated reload system and advanced fire control provide a significant tactical advantage. Its ability to quickly deliver and relocate after a salvo reduces vulnerability to counter-battery fire, a critical factor in modern combat scenarios. Furthermore, its compatibility with various rocket types enhances its adaptability across different mission profiles.

The RM-70 Vampire's capabilities align with NATO's emphasis on rapid response and precision engagement. Its deployment enhances the alliance's deterrence posture, particularly on its eastern flank, by providing a credible and flexible artillery option. For countries like the Czech Republic, the Vampire not only bolsters national defense but also positions the nation as a key contributor to regional security and a competitive player in the global defense market.

Excalibur Army has successfully exported the RM-70 Vampire to several countries, including Indonesia, which entered into a production agreement to manufacture the system domestically (czdefence.com). While specific budgetary figures are not publicly disclosed, the system's cost-effectiveness, combined with its advanced capabilities, makes it an attractive option for nations seeking to modernize their artillery forces without incurring the higher expenses associated with systems like the HIMARS.

The unveiling of the RM-70 Vampire at IDET 2025 represents a significant milestone in artillery modernization, blending legacy design with cutting-edge technology. Its enhanced capabilities address the evolving demands of modern warfare, offering NATO and allied forces a versatile and reliable artillery solution. As geopolitical tensions persist, systems like the Vampire will play a crucial role in maintaining strategic balance and ensuring rapid, precise responses to emerging threats.