Czech Republic delivers to Ukraine modernized MLRS rocket launchers BM-21MT


According to pictures published on the "Ukraine Weapon Tracker" Twitter account on April 29, 2023, the Czech Republic has delivered to Ukraine an undisclosed number of BM-21MT MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket Systems), which is a modernized Czech version of the Soviet-made BM-21 rocket launcher system.
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Czech BM-21MT, a modernized version of the Soviet-made BM-21 is in service with the Ukrainian army. (Picture source Twitter Ukraine Weapons Tracker)


As the full-scale invasion unfolded, the Czech Republic promptly presented the Ukrainian ambassador in Prague with comprehensive detailing of weapons ready for immediate transfer. The first shipment of military aid arrived in Ukraine on February 27, 2022, demonstrating the Czech Republic's commitment to supporting its ally.

In April 2022, the Czech Republic became the first country to send heavy military equipment, including 38 T-72 main battle tanks from the Czech army's deep storage. Additionally, it was the first nation to provide combat helicopters, sending four modern Mil Mi-24V helicopters from the Czech Air Force's operational stock.

By February 2023, the Czech Republic had donated equipment worth €420 million from the Czech Army's stock or purchased from private Czech companies. Simultaneously, Czech arms manufacturers facilitated commercial sales and deliveries totaling €1.27 billion through direct purchases by Ukraine or other countries supporting Ukraine.

Further sales and deliveries, approved and valued at €1.6 billion, are yet to be fulfilled. The Czech Republic's robust support underscores its dedication to assisting Ukraine in the ongoing conflict.

No official information was published by the Czech government regarding the delivery of BM-21MT to Ukraine, but since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, the Czech Republic has already supplied Ukraine with a large quantity of MLRSs (Multiple Launch Rocket Systems) including 12 122mm RM-70, an undisclosed number of modernized 122mm RM-70 Grad from Czech arms companies, and RM-70 Vampire manufactured by the Czech company Excalibur Army.

The BM-21MT is a modernized version of the Soviet-made BM-21 also designed and developed by the company Excalibur Army. It was presented for the first time in June 2017 during IDET, a defense exhibition that was held in the city of Brno, Czech Republic.

The primary objective of this BM-21 upgrade was to enhance firing efficiency, improve accuracy, and reduce the time required for preparation and departure from the firing position. The primary focus was on automating and simplifying the launch and control of effective fire missions, resulting in a fully autonomous system capable of immediate response without the need for integration within separate firing units or elements.

The BM-21MT MLRS (Multiple Launcher Rocket System) is built on the TATRA T 815-7T3R2T 4x4 .1R chassis, a new version of the reliable TATRA FORCE T 815-7 heavy off-road truck. This design offers excellent off-road capabilities, high speeds even in challenging terrain, low operating costs, and high reliability while providing the driver and launcher operators with a comfortable experience.

The BM-21MT is powered by an air-cooled, supercharged V-8 engine producing 270 kW, the BM-21 MT can launch all 40 of its 122mm rockets within 20 seconds. With a gross weight of 14,850 kg (including 40 rockets), it offers enhanced performance and capabilities.


Czech Republic delivers to Ukraine modernized MLRS rocket launchers BM 21MT 925 002
Czech-made BM-21MT 122mm MLRS Multiple Launch Rocket System. (Picture source Army Recognition)