Polonez

History of Polonets

The modern Belarusian army relies on a powerful rocket launcher system called "Polonez," which is rooted in Soviet-Russian military doctrine. These rockets are not only lethal but also have a psychological impact on the enemy, particularly those in concealed positions. Belarus has been using Polonez rockets since 2016, and they were also employed by Belarus' partner in the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Polonez is akin to other Soviet-inspired rocket launchers like "Katyusha," "Grad," and "Uragan," all fulfilling the same battlefield role. The development of the Belarusian Polonez system began in 2014 and has been in production since then.

Polonez comes in two variants: "Polonez" and "Polonez-M." The former has a range of up to 120 miles, while the modernized "M" version extends the reach to 185 miles, giving it a substantial advantage on the contemporary battlefield. The "M" model was introduced in mid-2019, enhancing the Belarusian army's firepower and strategic capabilities.

Specification

Basics

Years of Operation: 2016

Origins: Belarus

Status: Active.

Crew: 4

Production: 50

Manufacturer: MZKT - Belarus

Operator: Azerbaijan;Belarus

Roles

Fire Support/Attack/Breakthrough

Support allied forces with direct/indirect fire, attacking forward positions and/or breaking through fortified areas of the battlefield. Designed to play an equally special role on the battlefield.

Highlights

Tire layout

The wheeled arrangement gives the system inherent road capability and improved maneuverability.

Cross-country skiing

The design includes features such as a chain linkage system or high ground clearance for better traversing of terrain.

ABC Protection

Crew are protected (standard or optional) by nuclear biological and chemical agents to improve survivability in contaminated areas.

Night Vision

Night vision equipment is available to the crew to allow operation in low light conditions or at night.

Indirect fire possible

The capabilities of this system allow it to attack targets/target areas without reaching line of sight.

Psychological effect

Capable of firing lethal indirect fire from a distance to saturate the area; can include nuclear, biological, and chemical agents.

Power and Performance

Engine: 1 x diesel engine driving conventional 8x8 four wheel drive.

Speed: 40.4 km/h (65.0 km/h)

Area: 310. 7 miles (500.0 km)

Weapons

2 x 4-tube 300mm rocket launchers are located at the rear of the hull.

AMMOTION

8 x 300mm battlefield missile.