Ukrainian forces adapt US-supplied vehicle into multiple launch rocket system With Soviet BM-21 Grad tubes

Bulgarian Military reveals in a recent article that the integration of Soviet-era technology with modern military vehicles has become a notable trend, especially in conflict zones where resources are stretched thin. 

Experts from the Ukrainian Armed Forces successfully adapted a US-supplied High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) into a form of “multiple launch rocket system [MLRS].” To achieve this, they incorporated four (possibly six) launch tubes from the Soviet BM-21 Grad system.

The photo recently appeared online, though the exact timing of when it was taken remains unclear. It was clearly captured in a semi-urban area somewhere in Ukraine. Several soldiers are seen near the system, with one holding what is likely a controller.

The presence of the controller in the soldier's hand while standing next to the BM-21 Grad rocket system suggests that he is likely operating the system. The controller is used to manage the rocket system, including functions such as aiming, targeting, and initiating the rocket launches.

This indicates that the soldier is in charge of fire control, coordinating the launch, and potentially handling the system's maintenance and checks before and after firing. This role is crucial for MLRS operations, as the success and precision of the fire depend heavily on the correct operation of the controller.

Integrating the BM-21 Grad's launch tubes onto an American HMMWV would present a considerable challenge from both an engineering and operational perspective. The first step would involve assessing the compatibility of the two platforms.

The BM-21 Grad is known for its powerful 122mm rockets, with a platform designed to handle substantial loads during launches. The HMMWV, however, is a multi-purpose vehicle with a limited payload capacity and no integrated rocket firing systems.

To install the BM-21 tubes onto the HMMWV, the chassis would need reinforcement, possibly adding extra support beams to ensure stability during launches. The combined weight of the tubes and rockets would require a significant boost to the HMMWV's payload capacity, potentially necessitating modifications to the suspension and undercarriage.

The next challenge would be integrating the electrical and mechanical systems. The BM-21’s guidance system would need to be adapted for the HMMWV, requiring new control panels and management interfaces within the vehicle's cabin. Additionally, the electrical connections for firing the rockets would necessitate changes to the HMMWV’s electrical infrastructure.

The installation of the launch tubes would require securely attaching the rocket containers to the HMMWV platform, potentially using specialized mounting systems to ensure the tubes remain stable even when driving over rough terrain. Additionally, proper weight distribution would be crucial to preserve the vehicle’s maneuverability.

Security is a crucial consideration when integrating such a system, as measures need to be taken to protect the crew from recoil, heat, and explosive gases during launch. This could involve adding heat-resistant materials and protective shields around the vehicle’s cabin.

After installation, thorough testing should be performed to evaluate the system's stability, guidance accuracy, and overall operational compatibility. These tests would simulate various combat conditions to ensure the modifications do not affect the HMMWV's core performance.

The BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launcher has a loading time of around seven minutes per launch tube. Typically mounted on chassis like the Ural-375D or Ural-4320, this system is recognized for its effectiveness and reliability in combat.

The BM-21 Grad uses 122mm caliber rockets, with the M-21OF being the most common type. This fragmentation and high-explosive shell weighs approximately 66kg, including a 19kg warhead.

These rockets are designed to target both personnel in the open and those sheltered, as well as lightly armored vehicles. The system has a firing range of up to 20 kilometers, with a maximum flight time of around 30 seconds.

Besides the M-21OF, the Grad system is also capable of using various other types of ammunition, such as the 9M42 for illumination. This rocket is launched at an altitude of 450-500 meters and illuminates an area with a 1-kilometer diameter for approximately 90 seconds.

Another specialized munition is the 9M28D, designed for radio jamming. It disrupts enemy communications within the frequency range of 1.5 to 120 MHz, offering a firing range of 18.5 kilometers and continuous jamming for up to 1 hour.

By Naila Huseynova