Tel Aviv: Israeli company Elbit Systems was awarded a $150 million contract to supply PULS (Precise and Universal Launching Systems) rocket launchers and a package of precision-guided long-range rockets to an international customer. The contract will be performed over a period of three years.
According to the company, it provides a comprehensive and cost effective solution, that can launch unguided rockets, precision guided munitions and missiles with an effective range of up to 300km. With its unique design, the PULS can also support future growth capabilities such as the ability to launch loitering munitions, including the canister launched configuration of Elbit Systems’ SkyStriker loitering munition.
The PULS launcher is fully adaptable to existing wheeled and tracked platforms, enabling a significant reduction in maintenance and training costs.
Yehuda (Udi) Vered, General Manager of Elbit System Land said, “We are seeing an increased demand for our advanced artillery solutions from militaries looking to increase the effectiveness of their armed forces. This contract provides an additional vote of confidence in Elbit Systems’ PULS rocket artillery solutions.”
The PULS is a launcher carried by a heavy truck and capable of launching different types of rockets, to ranges of up to 300 km.
According to the official Elbit brochure, “The multi-purpose launcher features two PODS; each POD is designed for a specific rocket type: the Accular 122mm (18 rockets) with a range of up to 35km, the Accular 160mm (10 rockets) with a range of up to 40km, the EXTRA (4 rockets) with a range of up to 150km and the Predator Hawk (2 rockets) with a range of up to 300km.”
The PULS creates interest in many countries and recently it was reported that the Royal Army of the Netherlands decided to purchase it.
Elbit has taken this system some steps forward and recently unveiled the Light PULS. According to the company, Light PULS is a “lightweight airborne version rocket launcher system developed to meet the battlefield challenges of Special Forces operating in remote, high-risk locations that are beyond the range of traditional artillery fire support”. According to the Israeli company this light version can be transported by a C-130 or similar aircraft .
-The writer is an Israel-based freelance journalist. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
