Serbia modernizes M77 Oganj Multiple Rocket Launcher System Into M17.

At the Partner 2023 expo, Serbia is unveiling the M17 "Oganj," a self-propelled, digitalized, multitube rocket launching system. Developed by the Military Technical Institute under the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Serbia, this system is a modernized version of the older SVLR Oganj 128mm M77. It is designed to provide artillery support at the brigade level.
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Serbian M17 "Oganj" Multiple Launcher Rocket System (Picture source: Army Recognition )

The M17 "Oganj" comes with a range of advanced features that set it apart from its predecessor. One of the most notable is its automatic aiming and navigation capabilities, controlled by an Inertial Navigation System (INS) and a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). This allows for more precise targeting and efficient use of the system. The Serbian army currently has this MLRS within its armed forces.

The M17 is also compatible with the Universal Mobile Armed Digital Station (UPARS), thanks to its modern telecommunication computer subsystem. This enhances its operational flexibility and allows it to integrate seamlessly with other systems. In terms of armament, the M17 "Oganj" is equipped with a launching box containing 32 tubes of 128 mm caliber. These tubes can fire missiles with varying ranges: 22.5 km for the 128 mm Oganj M18 missile, 21.4 km for the 128 mm Oganj M77 missile, and 17.7 km for the 122/128 mm M91 missile. The system is mounted on a FAP 2026 BDS/A 6x6 vehicle.

The Serbian vehicle incorporates features for effective concealment from enemy reconnaissance. It is equipped with smoke grenade launchers and a new tarpaulin that makes it less visible to enemy forces. This maintains the element of surprise and enhances the system's survivability on the battlefield.

It has also undergone several modernization programs to improve its capabilities. For instance, it can now use many different types of rockets, including Grad 122mm and Oganj 128mm. The modernization also introduced new 128mm rockets with a range of up to 50 km and better Circular Error Probable (CEP). These upgrades have significantly reduced the time required for the system to occupy a firing position, act, and leave it, from 26 minutes to just 3 minutes.

The FAP 2026 is a medium-sized tactical truck produced between 1978 and the 1990s. Designed by the Military Technical Institute and manufactured by Fabrika Automobila Priboj, this vehicle was developed to meet the varied needs of the armed forces and logistics services. Classified as a 6x6 utility and transport truck, the FAP 2026 features a COE (cab-over-engine) body style, allowing for better space utilization and maneuverability. Under the hood, it is equipped with a Mercedes-Benz OM 402 engine, coupled with a FAP MS-120 16-speed synchromesh transmission, offering great flexibility in various driving conditions.

The truck has the following dimensions: a wheelbase of 3,450 mm, a total length of 7,720 mm, a width of 2,490 mm, and a height of 3,100 mm. These dimensions give it a large carrying capacity and substantial storage space. The empty weight of the truck is 11,570 kg, allowing it to be easily equipped with rocket launchers. Regarding the electrical system, the FAP 2026 is equipped with two 12V batteries, each with a capacity of 143 Ah. This electrical system ensures the reliable operation of various equipment and accessories on the truck, including the new guidance systems due to the vehicle's modernization.

The modernization of the M77 into the new M17 version is an interesting step, but it remains an older design. Perhaps the modernization carried out on this vehicle will not be sufficient to be fully effective. However, if the entire M77 vehicle fleet can be fully modernized to M17, it would represent a significant improvement in the Serbian military arsenal.