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PHL03


Export: AR2


Overview


PHL03

A PHL03 launch vehicle in tre travel configuration.
Source: Chinese internet - © copyright lies with original owner

Origin
China
Type
Multiple rocket launcher
Entered service
2004
Status
In service
Development
Late 1990's
Developer
China - CALT
Production
2004 - present
Producer
China - Norinco
Designations
Type 03 (Chinese service)
AR2 (export designation)
A100, PHL96 (prototype systems)

Description


Introduction

The PHL03 is a multiple rocket launcher of Chinese origin. It was developed to supplement and replace older long range artillery systems in Chinese service. The design is a further development of the A100 / PHL96 system developed in the mid 1990's, which in turn was heavily inspired by the Soviet BM-30 Smerch system.

Layout

The PHL03 is based on the large Wanshan 8x8 truck chassis. It features a 12 round launcher for 300mm artillery rockets that is similar to the BM-30 in design and caliber. The rockets are unguided solid propellant artillery rockets with wrap around folding fins. Additional rockets are carried on a transloader which is also fitted with a crane for reloading.

Firepower

The PHL03 fires 300mm rockets of similar design as the Russian BM-30 Smerch system. All 12 rockets are ready to fire. The rockets are available with a variety of warheads, including HE-Frag, AP cluster and AT cluster. The maximum range is estimated at 80 to 100 km, although Chinese sources claim ranges up to 150 km.

Protection

The PHL03 is an unarmored system that is vulnerable to any kind of direct and indirect fire. Its long range allows it to engage enemy systems beyond their maximum range, operating in relative safety.

Mobility

The Wanshan 8x8 truck chassis features very large tires and provides the PHL03 with a good mobility, both on and off road. A diesel engine provides propulsion and speeds up to 65 km/h can be achieved.

Users

The PHL03 has been adopted by Chinese forces and is available for export sales. Expert orders are claimed to include Morocco and Sudan.

Variants


PHL03

PHL03 systems during a parade with launchers in slightly raised position.
Source: Chinese internet - © copyright lies with original owner

PHL03

The PHL03 is produced only in a single version. It looks very similar to the Russian BM-30 Smerch. It can be distinguised by the full width crew cabin. A transloader based on the same Wanshan chassis accompanies the launch vehicle.

Details


Facts PHL03
General
Origin
China
Type
Multiple rocket launcher
Crew
4
Dimensions
Weight
43 t combat load
Length
12 m
Width
3 m
Height
3 m
Main armament
Type
300mm artillery rocket
Mount
12 tube launcher
Ammunition
12 rockets, all ready to fire
Range
70 to 130 km, depending on rocket type
Salvo duration
30 seconds
Time to reload
About 30 minutes
Chassis
Chassis type
Wheeled chassis, 8x8
Steering
Front two axles
Tire pressure
Central tire pressure system
Automotive
Engine
Deutz diesel
Power output
517 hp
Transmission
ZF automatic transmission
Fuel
450 L
Mobility
Speed
60 km/h on road
Range
650 km on road
Turn radius
15 m
Power to weight ratio
12 hp/t
Obstacle crossing
Wall
0.5 m
Trench
2 m
Gradient
57 %
Slope
30 %
Fording
1.1 m
Protection
Armor type
None, softskin vehicle
NBC system
No
Smoke system
No

Media


Related articles


PHL16

The PHL03 is supplemented by the longer range PHL16. The PHL16 fires larger 370mm diameter rockets at a distance of 280 km, twice the range of the PHL03.