russian state media outlets have published several reports regarding the Sarma MLRS, highlighting its use in nomadic gun tactics- specifically the shoot-and-scoot principle. Reports indicate that russian forces have begun operational testing of the vehicle directly in the theater of operations.
russian sources frequently compare the Sarma to the American M142 HIMARS, labeling it a direct analogue. This comparison stems from the use of six launch tubes and a shared operational concept: the vehicle is designed for rapid arrival at a firing position, quick discharge of its rocket load, and immediate extraction to evade counter-battery fire - a critical capability given the high density of FPV and reconnaissance drones.
Read more: Moscow's May 9 Parade to Include Shaheds on KamAZ and T-34-85 on Carriages (Video)
russian claims suggest the Sarma surpasses the HIMARS based on caliber and range. The russian MLRS utilizes 300mm rockets with a reported range of up to 120 km, whereas they claim the HIMARS is limited to a 70 - 80 km range when using 227mm GMLRS munitions.
However, these claims omit the fact that since 2024, the United States has been producing ER-GMLRS rockets for the HIMARS, which boast a range of 150 km - 30 km further than the Sarma. Additionally, previous russian claims regarding an extension of the Sarma's range to 200 km have notably absent from recent reports.
Critically, the Sarma MLRS is a product of protracted development. While the Sarma designation itself is relatively recent (first appearing in reports in 2023), it is effectively a continuation of an older project.
The system is based on the 9A52-4 Kama experimental MLRS mounted on the KamAZ-63501 chassis. The first iteration of the Kama was unveiled in 2007, making the core technology 19 years old. Furthermore, despite reports of frontline testing, there is currently no evidence confirming that the Sarma has entered serial production.
Read more: Poland to Build 10,000 HIMARS-Style Rockets But Won't See Them Until 2030
