Analogue of the Soviet "Grad": what are the advantages of the Romanian APR-40 MLRS (video)

17.01.2025/23/31 XNUMX:XNUMX    1107

The main differences between the Romanian APR-40 MLRS and the BM-21 Grad are better cross-country ability and maneuverability. However, fire control is better implemented in the Soviet system.

As part of its military assistance, Romania has provided the Ukrainian Armed Forces with APR-40 multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), which are a Romanian modification of the Soviet BM-21 Grad. There is no exact data on the number of systems transferred, but a recent report by Army TV provided a glimpse into the use of these systems in practice.

Although the APR-40 resembles the BM-21 Grad in appearance, there are many differences between the two systems. For example, the Romanian machine's sights are located on the side of the launcher, requiring only seated operation, while the Soviet system's are mounted on the bottom, allowing for standing operation.

The rotation of the launch package in the APR-40 is carried out using a hydraulic drive controlled by a separate remote control with inscriptions in Romanian. The BM-21 "Grad" uses an electric drive, which makes the process somewhat simpler. Another difference is related to maintenance: the APR-40 has a cover on the rear of the guides, which must be removed before maintenance.




"To lubricate and clean the pipes here, this cover must be removed to service the system," the Ukrainian military officer said.

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Given this, Defense Express observers concluded that in terms of the artillery component, the Grad system is simpler and easier to perform combat missions.

At the same time, the Romanian system has a constructive advantage - the order of firing the shells is set in such a way as to prevent overheating of the guides and rocking of the machine during the launch of a salvo. In addition, the APR-40 chassis is based on the Romanian DAC-665 truck, which, although created for the civilian market, has higher driving characteristics compared to the Soviet Ural.

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However, the operation of the APR-40 is fraught with difficulties. The plant for their production in Romania has long been closed, which makes it difficult to find components. And frequent breakdowns are compensated only by the professionalism of Ukrainian mechanics, who ensure the maintenance of these systems in a combat-ready state.