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WR-40 Langusta

2010 MODERN

History of the WR-40 Langusta

In keeping with the theory of mechanized warfare developed from the Soviet tradition of WWII, the Polish Army introduced wheeled Multiple Rocket Launch System (MLRS) vehicles in the development of its indigenous WR-40 "Langusta" series - This is based on the existing successful BM-21 vehicle family of the Cold War era. The WR-40 entered service with the Armed Forces of the Polish Army in 2010 and dozens have been delivered since then until the time of writing (2012).

The WR-40 will undoubtedly be used in all direct combat operations of the Polish Army in the field of conventional warfare.

The design of the vehicle follows the use of a six-axle heavy industrial truck (Jelcz P662D.35 6x6) provided by the former Soviet Union, with an armored cab for the crew and an integrated flatbed truck with a rotating missile delivery system. The vehicle weighs 18.74 tons, is equipped with ten all-terrain rubber tire wheels, and fires a 40x122mm rocket within seconds of activation. The rockets are housed in individual launch tubes, arranged in four and ten tubes.

The mount allows traversing the target at different angles, and can be raised as needed to clear rows of trees, hills, and buildings. The armored crew cab (with drive and launch controls) is protected from small arms fire by its steelmaking process (including windows), and multiple rectangular doors allow the crew to enter and exit quickly. A typical starting team consists of four people.

Reloading requires a supply car.

The vehicle is powered by an Italian IVECO Aifo Cursor 8 EURO 3 series engine with 347 hp. This gives the WR-40 a top speed of 53 mph and a range of up to 400 miles. The 6x6 wheel arrangement enables off-road maneuverability, and the chassis' high ground clearance helps traverse shallow water.

WR-40 is a product of HSW S.A. (Huta Stalowa Wola) of Stalowa Wola, Poland. The focus has served the steel industry since 1938 and was so successful that the town of Stalowa Wola was formed around the mill. The company also produces a modern 155mm self-propelled howitzer "Krab" for the Polish army.