HIMARS vs. MLRS: Which Rocket System Packs a Bigger Punch? – Part 1

When Russia invaded Ukraine two years ago, most expected Russia to win quickly. However, such predictions did not materialize. This is because, with the help of strong support from the West based on the Ukrainian military’s desperate resistance, Ukrainian weapons have caused significant damage to Russian troops, thwarting their advance. Among them, there is a weapon system that overturns early war predictions and changes the course of the war. It’s a long-range rocket system with outstanding range and destructive power.

The representative ones are the “M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS)” and the “M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS).” These weapons are being highlighted as a significant threat to Russia and evaluated as “game changers” that can determine victory or defeat in terms of range and destructive power. The Ukrainian government, which has experienced this fact, is also persistently requesting support from the United States.

The Washington Post (WP) and other media have reported that “so far, HIMARS has destroyed over 200 targets.” In particular, it was reported that they are playing a significant role in reducing Ukrainian casualties by directly striking Russian artillery with the help of counter-battery radar, along with the M777 towed howitzer provided by the West, which has a maximum range of 40km.

To read Part 2…
To read Part 3…