According to leaked procurement documents obtained by the Ukrainian portal Militarnyi, the Russian Armed Forces have ordered two battalions of the new mobile multiple rocket launcher (MLRS) system Sarma.
The documents reveal that in 2024, the Russian Armed Forces contracted 12 launcher vehicles and an equal number of transport and loading vehicles.
“In response to the battlefield impact of the HIMARS systems supplied by the U.S., the Russian Ministry of Defense launched its own project to develop a precision-guided mobile rocket system,” said journalist Oleksandr Yan of Militarnyi.
According to Defence Blog, the 300mm Sarma launcher, developed by Motovilikha Plants, was officially unveiled earlier this year as part of Russia’s effort to gain more mobile and precise long-range firepower.
Mounted on a KamAZ-63501 8×8 chassis, the Sarma is based on design concepts from the previously shelved “Kama” project. Each launcher costs 155 million rubles (approximately $1.9 million), excluding transportation costs.
The system includes a six-tube launcher and positions itself as a more compact artillery piece with reduced combat weight. Combined with a fully armored crew cabin and a modern automated fire control system, Sarma aims to provide greater survivability and mobility in hostile environments.
The Sarma program reflects Russia’s broader initiative to adapt its artillery forces for high-precision operations under increasing counter-battery threats. Although full production schedules have not yet been confirmed, the recent order suggests the system could be operational by late 2025 or early 2026.
Photo: Motovilikha Plants. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
