Poland Receives New Homar-K Multiple Rocket Launchers for its Armed Forces.

On September 23, 2024, the Polish Armed Forces received new Homar-K multiple rocket launchers, thus strengthening the 16th Mechanized Division, as announced on their X account. Currently, Poland has more than 22 of these rocket systems, with more units being assembled at the Huta Stalowa Wola factory.
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The Homar-K is a Polish adaptation of the K239 Chunmoo artillery rocket system. (Picture source: Polish MoD)

Initially, 212 units had been ordered, but this number increased to 290 after the signing of a second execution contract in April of this year. This contract includes the acquisition of CGR-080 rockets with a 239 mm caliber, having a range of 80 km, as well as short-range ballistic missiles (SRBM) CTM-290, capable of reaching targets up to 290 km away. A logistics and training package accompanies these acquisitions. It is also planned to integrate the Homar-K system with 122 mm unguided rockets, stored in transport and launch containers developed by WZL-2. Some launchers may be mounted on third-generation Jelcz chassis, presented at the latest MSPO.

The Homar-K is a Polish adaptation of the K239 Chunmoo artillery rocket system. The original Doosan 8x8 truck chassis with an armored cab has been replaced by a locally-produced Jelcz 8x8 chassis. Behind the crew compartment are two containers capable of carrying six guided rockets with a 239 mm caliber and a range of 80 km or one ballistic missile with a range of about 290 km. Efforts are also underway to integrate this system with 122 mm rockets used by systems such as the WR-40 Langusta and BM-21 Grad, as well as unguided rockets with 131/227 mm calibers. The development of new rockets, targeting ranges of 150 to 200 km, is also ongoing.

The Homar-K stands out for its versatility and firepower. Weighing 31 tons and measuring 9 meters long, 2.9 meters wide, and 3.3 meters high, it is designed to be operated by a crew of three. Powered by an HD Hyundai Infracore DV11K 450-horsepower diesel engine, it can reach a maximum speed of 80 km/h and has a range of 450 kilometers with a fuel capacity of 250 liters. The transmission system, provided by Allison Transmission, enhances its robustness, allowing it to adapt to difficult terrain.

The Homar-K can fire a wide range of rockets and ballistic missiles, with various calibers. Its armaments include unguided rockets with calibers of 131 mm, 230 mm, and 239 mm, as well as guided rockets of 400 mm, currently in development. It is also capable of launching CTM290 tactical ballistic missiles of 600 mm, with a maximum range of 290 km. These weapons are guided by a GPS-assisted navigation system, ensuring an accuracy of 15 meters for the CGR080 rockets and 2 meters for the CTM290 missiles.

The Homar-K system can fire six 239 mm rockets in 30 seconds, with an effective range of 80 km. It also has the potential to integrate future weapons systems, targeting ranges beyond 200 km for 400 mm rockets. The advanced armor made of steel, ceramics, and polymer composites, compliant with STANAG 4569 Level 2 protection standards, effectively shields the crew from ballistic threats and shrapnel.

Finally, the Homar-K is equipped with the Topaz Automated Fire Control System, which allows it to be integrated into the current fire control and battlefield management systems used by Polish artillery units. The launcher is also connected to the Fonet digital communication system. In the future, the Homar-K could be mounted on a new chassis, the Jelcz 883.5 truck.