Russia to supply rocket launchers to India

Russia will supply 18 more 'Smerch' multiple launch rocket systems to India as part of moves by New Delhi to bolster firepower and reach of its army.
 
"The new 18 'Smerch' MLRS batteries would be supplied to India after the completion of the already contracted $455 million initial deal," Nikolai Dimidyuk, a senior official of the state-owned 'Rosoboronexport' corporation, said on Wednesday.

India has already acquired up to 36 'Smerch' MLRS whose delivery was completed earlier this year.

The Smerch long range rocket systems have a range of over 60 km, almost three times the distance of the present Indian artillery rocket systems.

Designed by Tula-based 'Splav' complex, Smerch, is a force-multiplier called by some experts as 'poor nations' strategic missiles'.

With a single salvo of 12 rockets armed with conventional charge and smart weapons it can completely destroy armoured columns and bunkers over the area of six square kilometres, experts say.