EuroPULS: The Future of Rocket Artillery Systems Developed by KNDS and Elbit Systems

The EuroPULS rocket artillery system, developed by KNDS and Elbit Systems, offers a flexible and scalable solution for modern military needs, featuring multi-platform compatibility and a wide range of ammunition options.

At the Future Artillery Conference in Paris, rocket launchers took center stage, highlighting their importance in providing long-range fire support. One significant development discussed was the EuroPULS rocket artillery system, a collaboration between KNDS and Elbit Systems, formalized at DSEI 2023 in London.

Development and Cooperation

The EuroPULS project began in 2022, with the formal agreement signed in 2023. This partnership leverages KNDS's expertise as a systems integrator and Elbit Systems' advanced technology. The goal is to create a modular, scalable system capable of firing a wide range of ammunition from various platforms.

Flexibility and Modularity

Traditional MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket Systems) often require proprietary ammunition, but the EuroPULS system is designed for flexibility. It can fire rockets and missiles from different manufacturers, which is crucial in adapting to mission requirements and potential ammunition shortages. The system features two launcher pods, allowing different types of ammunition to be loaded simultaneously.

Key Components

Elbit Systems provides the rocket launcher based on its PULS™ (Precise & Universal Launching System), while KNDS integrates the system. A critical element is the Fire Control System (FCS), derived from Elbit's technology and the RCH155 howitzer’s system by KNDS. This FCS is designed to integrate new ammunition easily while adhering to European safety standards and is ITAR-free.

Ammunition Compatibility

The EuroPULS can use a variety of munitions, including:

Accular 122 and 160 mm rockets: Ranges of 35 km and 40 km respectively.

Elbit/Diehl Extra rockets: 150 km range.

Predator Hawk rockets: 300 km range.

SkyStriker loitering munition: Up to 100 km range.

Ground Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB): 150 km range.

Kongsberg Naval Strike Missile (NSM): Over 250 km range.

MBDA Joint Fire Support Missile (JFSM) and 3SM Tyrfing: Up to 500 km range.

The system can integrate with other platforms, such as Rheinmetall HX trucks or BAE Systems tracked platforms, and is currently being built on an Iveco Trakker GTF3 8×8 chassis for the German configuration.

German Configuration

In its German configuration, the EuroPULS will be mounted on an Iveco Trakker GTF3 8×8 chassis. This configuration features:

• A six-cylinder turbocharged engine with 500 hp, allowing a top speed of 90 km/h and a range of over 750 km.
• A protected cabin for three soldiers, with optional metal shutters to protect the windshield during firing.
• An onboard crane for autonomous reloading of launcher pods.

Prototyping and Availability

KNDS is currently constructing a prototype of the EuroPULS in the German configuration, expected to be ready by Q3 2024 with testing to begin by the end of the year. Depending on orders, the EuroPULS is projected to be available by 2027.

The EuroPULS system represents a significant advancement in rocket artillery, offering unparalleled flexibility and adaptability for modern military operations. Its ability to integrate various munitions and platforms ensures it will be a key asset for armies worldwide.