Over the past few months, the National Guard of Ukraine has undertaken a comprehensive upgrade of its BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launcher systems, transforming Soviet-era workhorse into a modern, digitized fire-support platform. Central to this effort was the replacement of the Ural 6×6 chassis with the MAN 6×6 truck frame, significantly enhancing cross-country mobility, reliability and ease of maintenance under combat conditions.
Inside the new crew cabin, operators benefit from improved ergonomics and protection: a redesigned interior layout provides more comfortable seating, better visibility and optimized space for mission equipment. Electronic warfare countermeasures have been integrated alongside updated communications suites, enabling the launch unit to operate more survivably in environments contested by enemy jamming assets.
Read more: Ukrainian Border Guards Disrupt russian Eyes in Donetsk, Neutralizing Three Antennas, One EW Unit, and Murom-P System (Video)
Perhaps the most significant leap forward lies in the fully digitalized fire control and aiming system. A new suite of onboard computers and software allows crews to detect targets, calculate firing solutions and slew the launcher to precise azimuth and elevation angles within seconds. Electric servomotors now drive both horizontal and vertical launcher movements via remote control, reducing crew exposure and reaction times drastically.
To extend operational endurance, the upgraded chassis carries additional rocket pods, increasing ammunition load-out and reducing the frequency of resupply trips. Together, improved autonomy, digitized targeting and higher mobility mean that the National Guard artillery units can deliver rapid, accurate volumes of fire and then "shoot and scoot" before counterbattery forces can respond.
By modernizing the BM-21 Grad system in this way, the National Guard has not only revived a battle-proven system but also tailored it to the demands of maneuver-driven warfare. This effort strengthens Ukraine's layered-fire-support network, enhances battlefield survivability and ultimately helps preserve the lives of Ukrainian soldiers, an essential step in the ongoing effort to bolster the nation's defense capabilities.
Read more: Ukraine's National Guard Receives the Leopard 1A5 and 2A4 Tanks with Advanced Fire Control and Superior Protection (Photos)
