Aviation Naval Warfare Land Systems Small Arms By Flag By Year By Tag

BM-8-24 (Katyusha)

1941 WORLD WAR 2

History

The BM-8-24 was a rather simplified modification of the Soviet Army's T-40 and T-60 light tanks used as rocket launcher carriers during World War II. Once the tactical utility of the vehicle as a direct battle tank ended (and was eventually superseded by the arrival of the T-34 medium tank series) and to support the inventory of missile-delivery platforms, the tank hulls were selected for rapid reconstruction, in which their hull, her power The system and general design remained the same, with the addition of missile launch hardware above the fuselage in place of the standard turret and corresponding main gun armament.

Throughout the war, the Soviets favored rocket launcher transporters as they marched into Berlin, and the classic "Katyusha" 6x6 wheeled truck illustrates this best in this role. Reusing the light tank chassis makes the weapon system a simple tracked variant and a very reliable solution logistically, both in terms of manufacturing costs and availability.

In addition, performance specifications are likely to remain largely unchanged, providing the mechanized land-running capabilities inherent in compact tank designs while keeping up with the main force.

The 82mm rocket used in the vehicle was officially designated the "BM-8" and was introduced in August 1941. BM-8-24". The "BM" in their name indicates that they are ground-launched missile launchers, while the "8" indicates the type of missile used ("BM-8").

The "24" is used to indicate the launch track Quantity, mounted on launch vehicle components - 24 in total.

While individual missiles are not completely accurate, missiles have a huge saturation effect on the target area, especially when using multiple vehicles for multiple salvos. Not only are they destructive to infantry, digging troops, and light vehicles, but they also have a detrimental psychological effect on the recipient.

Projectors can be used in conjunction with artillery support before launching a major offensive to "soften" enemy positions.

From July to September 1941, the T-40 tank was converted into a rocket launcher carrier at the compressor plant in Moscow, and about 44 cars were converted for the mission. The T-60 was also modified in 1941.