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Israel has issued its ultimate weapon, the M270 MLRS long-range missile, to face Hamas. (Photo: Essanews)
JAKARTA – The Israeli military is mobilizing all its resources and efforts to confront Hamas fighters. The latest report states that Israel has had to release its ultimate weapon, namely the M270 MLRS long-range missile system.
This action was considered a surprising move, as this was a weapon that had not been used by the Israeli military for almost two decades.
Quoted from Gulf News, Saturday (21/10/2023), the following are the specifications for the M270 MLRS long-range missile.
The M270 MLRS long-range missile system was used by Israel on October 12 to attack Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.
According to data from The Military Balance, Israel currently has more than 100 MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket System) systems of various types, including around 40 M270 MLRS units, but the last documented case of their use was in 2006.
The system consists of a multi-wheel launcher, as well as a unit that transports it, which includes, among other things, a caterpillar track and an engine with a capacity of about 500 horsepower. Thanks to this support, the range of the mobile artillery was up to 311 miles, and its maximum speed reached 37 mph.
This launcher has been adapted for 227 mm ground-to-surface missiles. The distance at which a target can be struck depends on the type of ammunition used. For example, it can be the M30 and M31 missiles with a range of up to about 50 miles, but also the MGM-140 ATACMS missile characterized by its ability to attack objects up to 186 miles away.
The origins of the M270 MLRS date back to the 80s of the 20th century. This is an American-made weapon that is also used in the armed forces of NATO member countries. Recently, M270 MLRS systems have been supplied to Ukraine as part of support in the war against Russia.
The M270 MLRS is the older, larger sibling of the more modern M142 HIMARS launcher. This launcher is not only lighter, but also more mobile and effective. The advantage of the M270 MLRS is its ability to carry a larger number of rockets, up to 12 instead of just six.
(msf)