BM-30 Smerch vs BM-27 Uragan: how to tell them apart

Two rocket artillery that are easy to mix up at a glance. Here is what tells them apart.

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BM-30 Smerch

Rocket artillery, Soviet Union. In service since 1989

What gives it away

Very long eight-wheeled MAZ truck carrying 12 large rocket tubes in a block that extends past the rear.

Used by

Russia, Ukraine and others

BM-27 Uragan

Rocket artillery, Soviet Union. In service since 1975

What gives it away

Eight-wheeled ZIL truck with a launcher of 16 thick tubes in three layers (6-6-4) at the rear, pointing backwards when travelling.

Used by

Ukraine, Russia and others

BM-30 Smerch · BM-27 Uragan · All guides