The new guided missiles will fly up to 150 kilometers and destroy the target with shards or pressure.
Defense Forces will buy heavy rocket launcher ammunition for the Army from the United States for EUR 70 million. It will significantly improve the Army’s ability to fire far, as the new missiles have a range of as much as 150 kilometers.
The Defense Forces reported on the matter on Friday. Weapon deliveries will begin around 2025.
There are two types of rockets: one is fired at a point target and destroyed by the action of an explosion and pressure, the other is fired at a wider area so that the rocket explodes over the area and spreads fragments.
They are called GMLRS ER, which comes from the words Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System Extended Range. The rockets take advantage of satellite positioning.
They are manufactured by Lockheed Martin, the same company that also manufactures Finland’s new F-35 fighters.
Finland acquired heavy rocket launchers used in the Netherlands in 2006 and the decision to purchase new rocket now makes them even more efficient. The projectiles were updated in 2012–2015, after which they have been able to fire guided ammunition.
One tracked launcher has two separate cartridges containing the rockets. Each cassette can hold six rockets, for a total of twelve. The Defense Forces did not say how many rockets are in the deal.
Defense Forces plans to launch heavy rocket launchers by the 2050s.
“The acquisition of new longer-range ammunition will strengthen the Army’s large-scale and long-range firefighting capabilities and enhance the use of heavy rocket launchers. At the same time, the range of ammunition for rocket launchers will be diversified, ”says artillery inspector Colonel in the press release. Pertti Holma From the Army Staff.
The Defense Forces first announced the preparation of the project a year ago in February.
#Acquisitions #arms #Finland #buys #longrange #rockets #United #States #million #euros
