In a striking revelation, military analysts have identified the ten oldest Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS) still actively deployed, underscoring their enduring relevance in modern warfare. Despite being relics from decades past, these systems continue to unleash devastating firepower on the battlefield, showcasing remarkable resilience and adaptability.
Leading the list is the BM14, a Soviet-era MLRS that first saw action in 1952. This aging powerhouse can fire 140 mm rockets with a range of 9 to 10 km, proving that even the oldest systems can still pack a punch. Countries like North Korea and Ethiopia reportedly maintain a few units, demonstrating their ongoing utility in irregular warfare.
Close behind is the BM21 Grad, which entered service in 1963. With its 40 launch tubes capable of firing a full salvo of 122 mm rockets in just 20 seconds, it remains a staple for over 50 nations, including Russia and Ukraine. The sheer volume of fire it can deliver makes it a formidable presence on the battlefield.
The Type 63, also from 1963, is another lightweight MLRS that has found its way into the arsenals of more than 30 countries. Its portability and rapid-fire capabilities keep it relevant even as newer systems emerge.
As we delve deeper into history, the RM70 and BM27 Eurogun, introduced in the 1970s, continue to serve with distinction across various theaters of conflict, while the M77 Oanch and K136 Kurang showcase the adaptability of older designs through modernization.
These systems, though aging, have been upgraded to meet contemporary combat needs, proving that the past still has a role to play in the future of military operations. The persistence of these MLRS highlights not just the evolution of weaponry but also the strategic importance of firepower in modern warfare. As tensions rise globally, these old warhorses remind us that age is just a number when it comes to battlefield effectiveness.