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MLRS
ConceptUA

MLRS

Multiple-launch rocket system; a wheeled or tracked vehicle firing salvos of unguided rockets.

Last refreshed: 9 June 2026

Key Question

How are rocket artillery systems being adapted for unmanned vehicles in Ukraine?

Timeline for MLRS

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Background

MLRS (multiple-launch rocket system) is a class of artillery platform that fires salvos of unguided or guided rockets from a single vehicle. Systems range from light 107mm types to heavy 300mm platforms. Precision-guided variants such as GMLRS extend effective range beyond 70km.

MLRS has been central to the Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine's US-supplied M270 and HIMARS systems have struck Russian logistics at depth, while Russia's BM-21 Grad and Uragan have fired mass salvos at Ukrainian positions. In June 2026, the North Korean Type-75 107mm MLRS was confirmed mounted on Russian UGVs in Kharkiv direction, extending the class to autonomous platforms.

Common Questions
What does MLRS stand for in military terms?
MLRS stands for multiple-launch rocket system. It refers to artillery platforms that fire salvos of rockets — ranging from light 107mm systems to heavy 300mm types — from a single vehicle. Both guided and unguided variants exist.
Which MLRS systems are being used in the Ukraine war?
Ukraine operates US-supplied M270 and M142 HIMARS for precision long-range strikes. Russia uses BM-21 Grad, BM-27 Uragan, and BM-30 Smerch for mass fires. In June 2026, the North Korean Type-75 107mm MLRS was confirmed mounted on Russian unmanned ground vehicles in the Kharkiv direction.Source: ISW
Source Material
ISW Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, 7 June 2026