The Armed Forces of Ukraine Already Have Guided Missiles with a Longer Range Than HIMARS’ GMLRS
In particular, the Ukrainian military uses Ukraine-made Vilkha-M multiple launch rocket system (MLRS), which has a flight range of 110 km and a 300mm warhead weighing 220 kg, which is capable of hitting targets with high accuracy
The War Zone writes about this with reference to Ivan Vinnyk, the first deputy chairman of the National Association of Ukrainian Defense Industries (NAUDI).
By comparison, the GMLRS munitions - fired by the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS and the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) provided to Ukraine - have a range of up to about 80km and a 227mm, 90 kg warhead.
Vinnyk told The War Zone that the Vilkha-M modification program began in 2018 and that about 100 units have been produced.
They were first used in combat in May, 2022, he added.
Their precision, he said, is boosted by so-called “gas rudders” - scores of small holes emitting propellant - used to direct the missile on the target via GPS. While the Vilkha-M is said to be quite accurate and a precision munition, just how accurate isn't disclosed at this time.
en.defence-ua.com
I've seem estimates that its a bit less accurate then GMLRS 30m CEP rather than 10. But I don't know if either figure can be considered reliable, also the 30m might (if its accurate at all) be about older Vilkha missiles. More clear drawback of the Vilkha-M is the low numbers. According to the article 100 produced, some have used, so few left, and I'm not sure if the Ukrainians are capable of producing more under their current conditions. |
