LRM SR 5 Mkt Eurosatory 2016 2024
English Translation
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The SR-5 multiple launch rocket system is a recent Chinese development. It is a medium-range system. Mock-up of the launcher vehicle was revealed in 2012. The SR-5 is in service with Venezuela and possibly some other countries.
In concept the SR-5 is similar to the US HIMARS. It is based on a 6x6 truck chassis and uses modular interchangeable rocket pods. The launcher vehicle has an integrated crane and reloads rocket pods without external help. However the Chinese SR-5 has two rocket pods instead of one. So it has nearly twice the firepower of the HIMARS.
Currently there are two types of pods for the SR-5. It can fire 220-mm and 122-mm rockets. These rockets have different ranges. Rockets are fitted with various warheads, including HE-FRAG, incendiary, smoke and illumination. Also there are cargo warheads with anti-tank or pre-fragmented anti-personnel submunitions. Some rockets have a GPS guidance for precision strikes.
Rocket pods are factory-fitted and sealed. These double as transport containers and launchers. A standard 220-mm pod contains 6 rockets. These rockets have a range of up to 70 km.
A 122-mm pod contains 20 rockets. The 122-mm rockets were originally developed for the Soviet BM-21 Grad. This caliber is widely used around the world. China developed and operates a number of 122-mm artillery rocket systems. These rockets have a range of up to 50 km.
Furthermore the SR-5 can carry combination with various rocket pods. It can have one pod with 220-mm rockets and another with 122-mm rockets, making this artillery system more versatile. It is likely that other rockets might be introduced for this system in the future.
The SR-5 launcher is based on Taian heavy high mobility truck chassis with 6x6 configuration. Vehicle has a double cab and carries the crew of 5 men. It can stop and launch rockets within 5 minutes from travelling. Vehicle can leave firing position within 1 minute, which makes it harder to hit by counter-battery fire.
Reloading is made by the crew within approximately 10 minutes. Reload rocket pods are carried by escorting cross-country truck. Typically a truck carries 4 pods (two sets of reloads). Reloading of any MLRS system usually takes place remotely from firing position in order to avoid counter-battery fire.
Each SR-5 launcher can operate autonomously or in larger formations.
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