Finland’s Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen has given the green light for the acquisition of a life cycle upgrade for the heavy rocket launcher system currently in use by the country’s Defense Forces. This transformational upgrade initiative is set to elevate Finland’s defense readiness by modernizing its arsenal to the M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (M270A2 MLRS) version, marking a pivotal advancement in the nation’s military infrastructure. The decision comes after the acquisition of heavy rocket launchers between 2006 and 2014 from the Netherlands, the United States, and Denmark. The impending lifecycle update will entail the comprehensive enhancement of the 41 existing rocket launchers to the cutting-edge M270A2 variant. This upgrade encompasses vital improvements to the rocket launcher’s chassis, weapon section, and firing control systems, ensuring a substantial leap in operational efficiency.
The overhaul as part of this update aims to render the rocket launchers practically indistinguishable from new units, guaranteeing enhanced longevity and efficacy. Moreover, the modernization initiative will facilitate the seamless utilization of future ammunition types and ensure compatibility with various payloads, amplifying the versatility and adaptability of Finland’s defense capabilities. The meticulous process of acquisition and upgrade was diligently advanced, with the United States Congress granting a sales license to Finland in August 2023. Lockheed Martin, a renowned US-based defense contractor, has been entrusted with the responsibility of executing the upgrade, demonstrating a partnership aimed at fortifying Finland’s defense infrastructure. The comprehensive upgrade package, with a total cost estimated at approximately 450 million euros excluding VAT, encompasses multifaceted improvements that promise to revolutionize the functionality of Finland’s rocket launcher systems.
The shift to the M270A2 version aligns Finland’s defense forces with new technological advancements, as showcased by the evolution of the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). This American-developed, self-propelled launcher has a rich history and has been extensively utilized by various NATO countries. The significance of the M270A2 upgrade lies in its integration of the Common Fire Control System (CFCS), facilitating the utilization of Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM) and other sophisticated enhancements. This critical upgrade will extend the strike distance through the Universal Fire Control System, which is also present in the new High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) models. The inclusion of GPS-guided precision fires capability, alongside the ability to launch Finnish-furnished practice rockets, exemplifies the seamless integration of novel products into the system.
M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System called 298 RsRakH 06 in Finnish Army service. 22 M270 were bought from the Netherlands in 2006 and upgraded to M270D1 in 2011. The M270D1 use the M142’s Universal Fire Control System instead of the standard M270A1 Improved Fire Control System. A further 6 refurbished M270D1 were obtained from the US in 2014. The remaining 12 former Danish M270 are used for driver training only. In 2011, Lockheed Martin received a $45.3 million contract to upgrade 22 Finnish Army M270 launchers, incorporating the Universal Fire Control System and other enhancements. The upgrade enables the launchers to fire precision GPS-guided munitions for the first time. Finland joins other countries that have recognized the combat-proven precision advantages that the MLRS Family of Munitions delivers. The enhanced MLRS M270A2 launcher can move away from the area at high speed following missile launch.
