Ukraine receives Spanish kits to make 'ancient' Grad rockets more precise

Ukraine is enhancing the accuracy of its Soviet-era BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launchers with new technology from Spanish firm EM&E. The upgrade kits are designed to transform the unguided rockets into precision-guided munitions, significantly improving their effectiveness on the battlefield.

The system integrates satellite and inertial navigation, enabling the rockets to hit targets with greater precision. A newer version of the technology is reportedly capable of striking targets even amidst strong electronic jamming, a crucial capability in modern warfare. This advancement could revitalize the BM-21 Grad, a weapon system whose origins trace back to the Cold War era.

Since 2023, Ukraine has received over 10,000 of these upgrade kits. The potential impact of turning thousands of existing, less accurate rockets into precision weapons is substantial. This technological infusion addresses the Grad system's historical weakness: its inherent imprecision.