BM-13 Katysha Multiple Rocket Launcher
During WWII the BM-13 Katysha multiple launch rocket system gained immortal glory as a symbol of Soviet artillery power. During WWII the most suitable BM-13 platform was Lend-Lease Studebaker truck. The placement of the launcher on ZIL-151 platform was one of the first attempts to improve the Katysha after the end of WWII. The ZIL-151 platform had high cross-country capabilities and was domesticafly produced. The BM-13 was subsequently deployed on the on ZIL-157 platform. BM-13 was equipped with M-8 82mm rockets or M-13UK 132mm rockets launched from a joist type system. The spiral type lifting mechanism was hand-driven and permitted firing 16 rockets from 8 guiding tubes. Two jacks, located at the vehicle rear, were set against the soil before firing to discharge the back axles springs and to stabilize the platform.
Sources and Methods
http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/row/bm-13.htm
Maintained by Robert Sherman
Originally created by John Pike
Updated Saturday, June 19, 1999 6:37:33 AM