New extended range rockets developed for Tornado-G and Tornado-S MLRS.

Russia is developing new rockets with extended range and new warheads for Tornado-S and Tornado-G multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS).

Tornado-G MLRS (Picture source: Army Recognition)

There are plans both to increase the range and the accuracy of fire and expand the range of assignments for the system’s munitions by way of developing shells with new types of warheads," Vladimir Lepin, CEO of Tecmash Group developing the shells, told TASS Monday, May 6. "Work is underway to also improve the 122mm Tornado-G multiple launch rocket system," he added.

The Tornado-G MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket System ) is an improved version of the standard Russian-made 122mm BM-21 rocket launcher system based on a Kamaz or Ural-4320 truck. The Tornado-G has been made to be fully automatic. The operating crew has been reduced to three men compare to the six-man crew of the BM-21 Grad. Previously, the BM-21 could be loaded only from the rear and there was no automation system. The Tornado-G was intended to replace the old BM-21 Grad rocket launcher system. The Tornado-G is three times more efficient than its predecessors. Currently, the Tornado-G is in service with the Russian army since 2011. The Tornado-G was demonstrated for the first time during a military exercise in 2012.

The 9A52-4 Tornado-S system is based on the chassis of the KamAZ-63501 8x8 military truck, which provides good tactical mobility. It is equipped with a single container with six launcher tubes for 300-mm rockets, which can fire all current Smerch rockets, including HE-FRAG, incendiary, thermobaric, cluster with anti-personnel or anti-tank mines. Cluster rounds may also carry self-targeting anti-tank munitions. The 800 kg standard rocket has a maximum range of 90 km. A range and direction correction system provides better accuracy compared to its predecessors. The 9A52-4 can launch rockets singularly, by a partial ripple or by a full salvo, which can cover an area of 32 hectares. A full salvo can be fired within 20 seconds. The 9A52-4 launching vehicle can be reloaded within 8 minutes. Launcher pods are designed for use with 122-mm and 220-mm rockets. The weapons system is equipped with an automated laying and fire control system, along with autonomous satellite navigation and positioning system. Positioning and firing data are exchanged between the launch vehicle and the command vehicle.