The PHL-03 is a 12-tube 300 mm long-range multiple rocket launcher of the People’s Republic of China . The design is based on the Russian made BM-30 Smerch rocket artillery system. The main role for this multiple rocket launcher is to engage strategic targets such as large concentrations of troops, airfields, command centres, air defense batteries and support facilities. It is also used to engage in counter battery fire missions. It was developed by NORINCO and reportedly entered service with the Chinese army in 2004-2005. Currently it is one of the most powerful multiple launch artillery rocket systems in the world.
The PHL-03 has the same configuration as the original Russian counterpart with 12 launch tubes for 300 mm artillery rockets, along with a computerized fire control system (FCS) incorporating GPS/GLONASS/Beidou. A standard weight for each rocket is 800 kg with a 280 kg warhead. Maximum firing range is depending on warhead type with around 70 – 130 km. Standard warheads are High Explosive Fragmentation (HE-FRAG), fuel-air explosive, and cluster warheads with anti-armor and anti-personnel submunitions. Cluster warheads can also carry self-targeting anti-tank munitions. A full salvo of this system could potentially cover an area of up to 67 hectares.
The PHL-03 is based on a Wanshan WS2400 special wheeled chassis with 8×8 configuration. This military vehicle has good cross-country mobility and can travel off-road. It is fitted with a central tyre pressure system, which can be adjusted on the move. This system improves mobility over difficult terrain, such as sand, mud and snow. The PHL-03 is operated by a crew of 4. A reloading vehicle is based on the same 8×8 chassis and is fitted with a hydraulic crane and carries 12 reload rockets. Reloading usually takes place remotely from firing position, to avoid counter-battery fire.
