Romanian-supplied rocket launchers bolster Ukraine's arsenal
A video has surfaced on social media showing Ukrainian soldiers using a multiple rocket launcher system. Although it resembles the BM-21 Grad, it is actually the APR-40. This weapon was most likely supplied by Romania, although such a transfer (let alone the number of launchers delivered) has not been officially announced.
The Defence Express portal notes that Romania generally does not disclose the contents of military aid packages provided to Ukraine. In the case of the APR-40, the situation is particularly mysterious because, even based on The Military Balance reports, it's not possible to determine how many of these launchers are still in the Romanian armed forces and how many have been transferred to Ukraine.
APR-40 in Ukraine. It's the "Romanian Grad"
The APR-40 multiple rocket launcher is a licensed Romanian copy of the BM-21 Grad system produced in the USSR. Overall, the performance of these two weapons is similar, although Romanian engineers have implemented some modifications. Thanks to these modifications, the APR-40 has advantages in certain areas.
This includes the use of the Romanian DAC-665 truck with a 6×6 drive, which was originally designed for civilian use but ultimately provided the APR-40 with noticeably better mobility than the Soviet Ural truck, on which the BM-21 Grad was based. Another difference between the APR-40 and the BM-21 Grad is the placement of the aiming devices.
Romanian artillery in Ukraine
The APR-40 features 40 tube guides (10 in each of the 4 rows). Just like its Soviet predecessor, it has the capability to fire in single-shot mode as well as in a salvo (which takes 30 seconds for all rounds to be fired).
Ukrainian soldiers using the APR-40 assess that despite its age, the equipment provided by Romania performs well in its intended tasks, such as engaging ground targets, including enemy artillery fire positions and field fortifications.
The maximum range of the missiles used in the APR-40 (calibre 122 mm) is a little over 19 kilometres. Fire control can be conducted from inside the vehicle but also remotely using a controller.
