Image source: topwar.ru
KNDS Deutschland (Germany), Elbit Systems (Israel) and Kongsberg (Norway) conducted the first launch of the NSM rocket, widely used by NATO fleets, from the new MARS 3 MLRS. According to the developers, the testing was successful and confirmed the system's ability to launch this long-range anti-ship missile.
The test, accordingly, showed the ability to hit enemy ships from this installation, which was originally created to combat ground targets. Thus, MARS 3 will now be able to act as a coastal defense missile system.
Image source: topwar.ru
The launcher is fully autonomous and equipped with an automatic target acquisition system, which ensures that it is ready to strike on demand. Thanks to its mobility, it can operate in the "shot and gone" mode, avoiding counter-battery fire by quickly changing positions.
MARS 3 is being created on the basis of the MARS II tracked complex, the European version of the American M270A1 MLRS, which differs mainly in its own SLA.
Image source: topwar.ru
MARS 3 has a combat weight of less than 40 tons. The 397 kW (540 hp) engine provides speeds of up to 90 km/h. The crew consists of 2-3 people. The effective firing range is up to 150 km when using the EXTRA missile and up to 300 km when using the Predator Hawk – both Israeli developments.
