Ukrainian forces strike Russian logistics with HIMARS in Kursk

The Ukrainian military operation in the Kursk region would not have such tangible effects without the involvement of Western equipment. A new video posted on social media shows that Ukrainians are also using HIMARS artillery. What is this weapon?

From the very beginning of the Ukrainian offensive, it was clear that the Russians would have to face not only post-Soviet but also Western weapons in the ranks of the Ukrainians. In the first days of the operation in the Kursk region, some of the elite Ukrainian brigades equipped with equipment from NATO countries appeared there.

Reports showed American Stryker armored personnel carriers and their specialist Stryker M1132 variants, German Marder infantry fighting vehicles, and Polish PT-91 Twardy tanks. The list should also include HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) artillery.

The new video shown by the Ukrainians demonstrates the use of the HIMARS system to destroy Russian logistics. In this instance, it was an attack on their pontoon bridges set up to transfer troops and equipment.

This artillery, developed by the American company Lockheed Martin, is adapted for firing various types of ammunition, which is one feature contributing to its extensive capabilities.

The standard MLRS missiles, characterized by a calibre of 9 inches and a range of about 50 miles, can be used. However, greater destructive power is provided by MGM-140 ATACMS ballistic missiles, which, depending on the version, can hit targets 100 or even 186 miles away. Additionally, HIMARS allows the use of GMLRS missiles with cluster warheads. 

HIMARS is sometimes called the "god of war" due to its high effectiveness and accuracy, made possible by a combination of inertial and satellite navigation.

Equally important is the fact that it uses a wheeled chassis (6x6 drive), which, combined with a 390 HP engine, provides excellent mobility for the entire system. On roads, the vehicle with launchers can reach speeds of up to 56 mph, and its range is estimated to be about 298 miles.