BM-21 Grad

The BM-21 “Grad” (Russian for “Hail”) is a Soviet-origin 122mm multiple rocket launch system (MLRS) that has become one of the most widely used artillery pieces in the world. Mounted on a Ural-375D or Ural-4320 truck chassis, it is characterized by its simplicity, ruggedness, and devastating area saturation capability. A single battery of Grad launchers can deliver a massive volume of high-explosive fragmentation rockets over a large target area in a very short time, making it a foundational weapon for artillery regiments and a symbol of long-range fire support in conventional and asymmetric warfare.

Key Tactical Characteristics:
– High Volume of Fire: The standard launch vehicle carries 40 rockets in a ready-to-fire rectangular bank of launch tubes.
– Rapid Saturation: A full salvo of 40 rockets can be launched in as little as 20 seconds, blanketing an area up to 40 hectares (approx. 100 acres) with shrapnel and blast effects.
– Effective Range: Fires a family of unguided rockets with ranges from 5 to 45 kilometers, depending on the rocket type.
– Mobility & Shoot-and-Scoot: The truck chassis provides good cross-country mobility, allowing the system to quickly move to a firing position, launch, and relocate before counter-battery fire can be effective.
– Crew & Organization: Typically operated by a crew of 3-4. Deployed in batteries of 6 launchers for concentrated effect.
– Unguided & Area Weapon: Rockets are unguided, making it most effective against area targets like troop concentrations, light vehicles, supply depots, and unfortified positions.

A cornerstone of artillery firepower. For information on related artillery systems, munitions, and counter-battery technology, consult the experts at Tactical Supply Pakistan