Thailand plans to acquire two additional Chinese SR4 MLRS rocket launchers.

The Royal Thai Army has announced its intention to acquire two additional Norinco SR4 122mm self-propelled multiple rocket launchers to achieve full operational capacity for its SR4 multiple rocket launcher battery with a total of six systems. These systems, currently in service within the 711th Artillery Battalion of the 71st Artillery Regiment of the Artillery Division, enhance the army's artillery support capabilities.
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The Royal Thai Army has announced its intention to acquire two additional Norinco SR4 122mm self-propelled multiple rocket launchers. (Picture source: Thai Defense Blog)

Since 2013, four SR4 122mm multiple rocket launcher systems, manufactured by Norinco in China, have been deployed within the Royal Thai Army's 71st Artillery Battalion. The addition of two more systems will allow for the formation of a complete company equipped with six systems.

The SR4 is a self-propelled multiple rocket launcher introduced into service in 2013. Designed for a crew of five, this weapons system is based on a robust and mobile platform, measuring approximately 7.5 meters in length, 2.4 meters in width, and 3 meters in height, with a weight of around 13 tons. The main armament of the SR4 consists of a battery of 40 tubes capable of launching 122mm rockets. Each rocket weighs about 66 kg, with the explosive warhead weighing 19 kg, allowing it to hit targets up to 50 kilometers away. A full salvo can be launched in about 20 seconds, while the system requires about 10 minutes to reload.

From a mobility standpoint, the SR4 is powered by a Weichai WD615-77A diesel engine producing 277 horsepower, enabling a maximum road speed of 80 km/h and a range of about 600 kilometers. In terms of maneuverability, the rocket launcher is capable of overcoming gradients of 60%, side slopes of 30%, vertical steps, and trenches of about 0.6 meters, and can ford depths of up to 1.2 meters. This combination of powerful armament, high mobility, and maneuverability makes the SR4 a highly effective multiple rocket launcher system on the battlefield, capable of providing sustained long-range fire support with remarkable accuracy.

The SR4 rocket launchers use 122mm rockets, models SHE-30 and SHE-40, and are compatible with the 122mm DTI-2 rockets developed by the Defense Technology Institute in Thailand, thus promoting the country's self-reliance and reducing import needs.

The acquisition of additional SR4 systems, aiming to replace the SR.31 multiple rocket launchers mounted on Type 85 transport vehicles, represents an economical approach to streamlining the systems in service. The Thai Army also continues to support the development of national rocket systems, such as the D11A, by the Defense Technology Institute of Thailand.