Russia to supply Smerch multiple rocket launchers

Russia to supply Smerch multiple rocket launchers

MOSCOW, OCTOBER 2: It’s going to supply 18 Smerch multiple rocket launchers (MRLs) to India, government-controlled television station ORT said today, in connection with the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which a package of defence deals is expected to be signed.

India is reported to have been conducting talks with Russia for theacquisition of the deadly Smerch (NATO version of Tornado) MRLs since theKargil operation last year.

The Smerch is highly effective in operations at high-altitude mountains,because of its vacuum charges, high mobility and manoeuverability on ruggedterrain. Smerch MRLs spray out fuel-air explosives which upon detonationpulverise adversaries hidden in caves, man-made fortifications and armoured vehicles.

It takes a team of three less than three minutes to set up a Smerch launcher for action and fire a salvo of 12 rockets.