The German BatCat project, kicking off with enthusiasm in 2012, is now nearing its peak. Back then, the Bundeswehr identified the need for long-range artillery to bolster MLRS systems support. Fast forward 12 years, and MBDA has unveiled its joint fire support variant [JFS-M] – a sleek, low-visibility strike missile housed in a launcher mounted on an Iveco 8×8 vehicle.
Modern aircraft construction leverages composite materials, adhering to stringent low-visibility norms. This latest initiative features a strike missile adaptable across various armed forces. There are even plans to launch it from aircraft and naval platforms.
In its core artillery mode, the missile boasts a 300 km range and can be carried in sets of four on the MLRS-E tracked vehicle or, as showcased at the ILA 2024 exhibition in Berlin, on the HMMT 8×8. Every version will offer teaming capabilities and two-way data links. Besides serving as a long-range weapon, the JFS-M is also designed to function as a decoy/silencer and a lightweight remote carrier.
Significant role
One of the primary roles of these missiles is to deliver rapid and concentrated fire support to ground troops. By utilizing advanced guidance systems, fire-support missiles can accurately strike enemy positions, fortifications, and high-value targets, thereby neutralizing threats and providing a tactical advantage to friendly forces.
In addition to their precision, fire-support missiles are designed to carry a variety of warheads, including high-explosive, fragmentation, and specialized munitions such as anti-tank or bunker-busting warheads. This versatility allows commanders to tailor their fire support to the specific needs of the battlefield, whether it be suppressing enemy infantry, destroying armored vehicles, or breaching fortified structures.
Another significant role of these missiles is to extend the reach of artillery units. Traditional artillery has limited range, but fire-support missiles can engage targets at much greater distances, sometimes exceeding 100 kilometers. This extended range capability allows forces to strike deep into enemy territory, disrupting supply lines, command centers, and other critical infrastructure, thereby weakening the enemy’s ability to sustain operations.
MLRS competitors
American artillery joint fire support features the M270 MLRS and the HIMARS [High Mobility Artillery Rocket System]. The M270 can launch a variety of munitions, including the ATACMS [Army Tactical Missile System], which provides long-range precision strike capabilities. HIMARS, a lighter and more mobile system, can also fire GMLRS and ATACMS missiles.
French artillery joint fire support is characterized by the LRU [Lance-Roquettes Unitaire], which is a modernized version of the older MLRS. The LRU can launch the GMLRS, offering enhanced accuracy and range. Additionally, France employs the CAESAR self-propelled howitzer, which can integrate with various guided munitions for precision strikes.
Russian artillery joint fire support includes the BM-30 Smerch and the 9A52-4 Tornado. The Smerch is a heavy MLRS capable of launching a variety of rockets, including guided versions for increased accuracy. The Tornado system is a more recent development, offering modularity and the ability to fire different types of guided and unguided rockets, enhancing its operational flexibility.
In service with the Bundeswehr
One of the primary systems is the Panzerhaubitze 2000 [PzH 2000], a self-propelled howitzer known for its high rate of fire and extended range. Another significant artillery system in the German Army is the MARS II [Mittleres Artillerie Raketen System], an upgraded version of the American M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System [MLRS]. The MARS II is equipped with advanced targeting systems and can launch a variety of rockets and missiles, providing versatile and powerful fire support.
The German Army also utilizes the 120mm mortar system, which is a more traditional form of artillery support. These mortars are typically deployed at the battalion level and are valued for their ability to deliver indirect fire with a high degree of accuracy and rapid response times.
In addition to these systems, the German Army has integrated advanced fire control and targeting systems to enhance the effectiveness of its artillery units. These systems include the ADLER III, a command and control system that improves coordination and communication between different artillery units and other branches of the military.
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