Tamnava is a new 267/122mm multiple launch rocket system (MLRS). Image courtesy of Srđan Popović.
Tamnava MLRS can carry 50 122mm or 12 267mm ready-use rockets. Image courtesy of Srđan Popović.
Tamnava MLRS is based on the KAMAZ 6560 8x8 heavy-duty truck. Image courtesy of Yugoimport SDPR J.P.

Tamnava is a new 267/122mm multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) developed by Yugoimport SDPR, a Serbian defence company.

The new 122/267mm dual MLRS was revealed by Yugoimport in February 2020. It intends to strengthen the artillery capabilities of the Serbian Armed Forces.

Design and features of Tamnava MLRS

Tamnava MLRS is based on the chassis of the KAMAZ 6560 8×8 heavy truck, which is mounted with a crew cabin. The MLRS is composed of sub-systems including the vehicle, launcher superstructure, launch modules, a hoisting device, an automatic system with drives, and a fire control system.

The vehicle measures 10.5m long, 2.6m wide, and 2.8m high. The maximum combat weight of the system is 35t. The MLRS is manned by a crew of three members.

The sensor suite of the multiple launch rocket system includes an inertial measurement unit (IMU), a satellite navigation receiver, and a radio. The vehicle is also equipped with a global positioning system (GPS).

Tamnava MLRS armament and fire control

The baseline configuration of the MLRS houses two 25-cell launch units with 122mm rockets or two six-cell 267mm launch units.

The total armament being carried by the system constitutes 50 122mm or 12 267mm ready-use rockets. The MLRS is capable of carrying two spare 122mm launch pods.

Launch modules enable the stowage of the rockets. The units lock the rockets during the movement and also provide direction to the rockets during the launch. The elevation and azimuth are controlled in automatic, semi-automatic and manual modes.

Elevation angles of the launch modules vary between 3° and 60°, while the accuracy of elevation and azimuth angles is +/-00-01 radian. The maximum angular rates of elevation and traversing are 2°/sec and 2°/sec, respectively.

The system is loaded or unloaded by a hoisting device installed on the platform. It also has an option to use disposable launch tubes.

“The system requires 90 seconds to prepare for firing and moves away from the point of firing within 90 seconds.”

Rockets are fired from the cabin or a shelter through a remote control panel. The platform is stabilised by four legs during the firing, while automatic slope correction is ensured by a special device. Electrical ignition to the rocket motors is provided by the launch module. The maximum firing range of the 122mm rockets is 40km, while 267mm rockets can engage targets at a maximum range of 70km.

The system requires 90 seconds to prepare for firing and moves away from the point of firing within 90 seconds. It can conduct burst fire with variable time intervals between 0.8 and four seconds.

The MLRS is also armed with a roof-mounted heavy machine gun mounted on top of the forward crew cabin.

Self-protection

The armoured cabin can protect the crew from small arms and shell splinters. Either side of the forward cabin is installed with two smoke grenade launchers.

The MLRS vehicle is also provided with a tarpaulin camouflage protection system to conceal it from enemy forces.

Engine and mobility of Tamnava MLRS Vehicle

KAMAZ 6560 8×8 truck is powered by a Euro III compliant KAMAZ-740.63-400 diesel engine developing a nominal power output of 400hp. The engine is coupled to a ZF 16S 1820, mechanical, 16-speed gearbox.

The vehicle features a leaf spring suspension system integrating hydraulic shock absorbers. It is equipped with a pneumatic brake system.

The heavy-duty vehicle has a maximum road speed of 90km/h and can attain a maximum range of 1,200km. It has a maximum gradient of 31%, while the outer turning radius of the vehicle is 15.6m.

The Tamnava MLRS is transported by train, trailer, ship, and transport aircraft.