AR3 multiple launch rocket system

Combat vehicle (BM) RSZO AR3 is mounted on a modified chassis of Wanshan off-road truck with the wheel configuration of 8×8. This type of chassis is used for all vehicles of Chinese large-caliber multiple rocket launchers recently developed (see for example AR1A).  The combat vehicle has good cross-country and off-road capabilities and can be operated in various climatic conditions within the temperature range of minus 20 to plus 55 degrees Celsius.

The artillery unit of the BM AR3 includes two disposable quick-release transport and launch containers with four tubular guides of 370 mm caliber or five guides of 300 mm caliber. The containers are designed for storage, transportation and launching of rockets. Charging and sealing of transport and launch containers is performed at the factory. In accordance with the modern concept of building a universal multiple rocket launcher system, the use of detachable TPK provides the following advantages: reduced charging time, flexibility in organizing the charge of firearms, simplified logistics and maintenance.

The AR3 multiple rocket launcher kit includes uncontrollable and guided missiles.

Transport and launch containers of 370 mm caliber are designed for launching guided BRE6 missiles. Maximum range of missiles is 220 km, minimum range is 100 km. The value of the round probable deviation is no more than 50 meters. There is no information about the control system implemented in the BRE6 missile, but according to the developers, the capabilities of these missiles are similar to those of ballistic missiles with a short range.

Unmanned and guided 300 mm calibre rockets can be equipped with different types of warheads. These include fragmentation, incendiary, volume detonation, and cassette missiles equipped with anti-personnel, anti-tank mines and self- aiming warheads. Depending on the type of projectile, the maximum range of fire is between 70 and 130 kilometres.  

Presumably, in terms of the composition of the used 300 mm caliber rockets, the AR3 MLRS is unified with the AR1A multiple rocket launcher system. According to NORINCO Corporation specialists, despite direct copying and borrowing of design elements of Smerch MLRS, 300 mm rocket launchers of AR3 system are original development and are incompatible with Russian analogues.

AR3 combat vehicles can be used as part of a battery, a division or for stand-alone tasks. The battery consists of combat vehicles, transport and charging vehicles, command (command and staff) vehicle, meteorological complex on the vehicle chassis, and other auxiliary vehicles.

Preparation of the combat vehicle for firing is carried out without leaving the cab. The time to prepare for firing is about 5 minutes. Rockets can be launched remotely. The time to leave the firing position after firing is about 1 minute. Rapid redeployment allows to evade counter-battery fire.

Behind each combat vehicle is a transport and charging machine, equipped with racks for transporting the TPK and a crane. The time of recharging the BM by two transport and launch containers is about 20 minutes. Usually, the recharging process takes place at a position far from the firing position in order to avoid counter-battery fire.

AR3 vehicle accessories include: a weapons of mass destruction protection system, fire control system, night vision devices, GPS positioning system, air conditioning system and tire pressure regulation system.