After 2.5 Years, How Many MLRS Does Russia Have Left? Count Using Unreleased Satellite Imagery

Summary

The video delves into the evolution and current state of Russian rocket artillery, highlighting its historical significance and role in modern warfare, particularly in Ukraine. It discusses key MLRS systems like the BM-21 'Grad', BM-27 'Uragan', and BM-30 'Smerch', noting their strengths and limitations. The analysis reveals a drastic decline in stored systems from 1,474 pre-war to just 339 today, raising concerns about Russia's ability to maintain effective firepower. The video also touches on improvised systems and production challenges, emphasizing the implications for future military operations.

Takeaways

• 🎖️ The history of Russian rocket artillery dates back to World War II, with the introduction of systems like the BM-13 'Katyusha.'
• 📊 Modern Russian MLRS systems focus on accuracy alongside firepower, moving away from the overwhelming barrage tactics of the past.
• 💥 Rocket artillery plays a crucial role in undermining enemy morale, creating disorganization and prompting troops to take cover.
• 🛰️ Satellite imagery is vital for assessing military assets, providing unbiased information on the current state of Russian MLRS storage.
• 📉 Before the conflict, Russia had 1,474 MLRS systems in storage, but as of now, only 339 remain, indicating a significant depletion.
• 🏗️ The remaining MLRS systems are likely in poor condition, further diminishing their effectiveness on the battlefield.
• 🚚 Identifying MLRS systems in satellite images is challenging, as they often resemble trucks and other vehicles.
• 🔧 Russia is also relying on improvised MLRS systems, created from captured or damaged artillery, to maintain firepower.
• ⚠️ Current production rates suggest a reliance on refurbished systems from storage, with new builds not keeping pace with losses.
• 💣 The decline in MLRS inventory may hinder Russia's operational capabilities, making it difficult to effectively suppress enemy forces before attacks.

Q & A

What is the historical significance of Russian rocket artillery?

Russian rocket artillery has a long history, dating back to World War II with the development of the BM-13 Katyusha. It has evolved from a focus on overwhelming firepower to more accurate systems in modern usage.

How does rocket artillery impact enemy morale in military operations?

Rocket artillery can significantly reduce enemy morale by causing disorganization and forcing troops to take cover, making it a crucial weapon before launching an attack.

What satellite imagery revealed about Russia's MLRS storage before and during the war?

Before the war, there were 1,474 MLRS systems in storage across 22 bases. Currently, only 339 systems remain, with significant reductions noted in the largest storage facilities.

What are the three main MLRS systems used by Russia?

The three main MLRS systems in use are the BM-21 Grad, BM-27 Uragan, and BM-30 Smerch, with the Grad being the oldest and in service since the early 1960s.

What challenges does rocket artillery face in terms of logistics and effectiveness?

Rocket artillery struggles with logistics due to the large number of rockets needed and has limited range capabilities. Additionally, its low accuracy means that even with large volleys, it may not hit targets effectively.

How does the effectiveness of modern rockets compare to traditional rocket artillery?

The global trend is shifting towards fewer but more accurate rockets, like the GMLRS, which function more like short-range ballistic missiles, contrasting with the classic, less accurate rocket artillery.

What is the current state of Russian MLRS production and repair?

As of February 2024, Russia had about 1,130 MLRS in active service, with ongoing repairs and upgrades. However, there is a significant reliance on older systems from storage.

What percentage of Russia's MLRS systems in production are rebuilt from storage?

Estimates suggest that around 80% of the MLRS systems produced are rebuilt from storage, highlighting the need for increased production to keep up with losses.

What are the implications of reduced MLRS systems for Russian military operations?

The depletion of MLRS systems could hinder Russia's ability to suppress enemy forces effectively before attacks, making it more challenging for them to advance in combat.

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