The Avibras X-40 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) was fielded by the Brazilian Army for a short time. It paired an elevating/traversing rocket launcher unit with the chassis and running gear of the Bernardini X1A1 Light Tank, the latter a modernized form of the classic American World War 2-era M3 "General Stuart" Light Tank series. The chassis was completed with support legs that were lowered prior to firing (for basic stability aiding in accuracy) and the launcher unit took the natural place of the Stuart's turret. The vehicle sported a weight of 17 tons and was crewed by four personnel.
Service entry of the line was during the latter half of the 1970s though it was eventually found, through practical use, that the X-40 was not a proper MLRS solution - target acquisition left much to be desired and the reloading process was deemed too time consuming as the rockets were heavy for their battlefield role. The projectile in play was of a single-stage solid-fueled design with 300mm caliber with a range out to 68 kilometers. Each rocket weighed 645 kilograms with a 147 kilogram warhead fitted and only three could be fired from the launcher rail unit.
With the introduction of the Avibras "ASTROS-2" MLRS series in the mid-1980s, the X-40 was ultimately retired front service during the 1990s.
(OPERATORS list includes past, present, and future operators when applicable)
✓Fire Support / Assault / Breaching
Support allied forces through direct / in-direct fire, assault forward positions, and / or breach fortified areas of the battlefield.
✓Special Purpose
Special purpose design developed to accomplish an equally-special battlefield role or roles.
Length
15.1 ft 4.6 m
Width
7.4 ft 2.25 m
Height
9.8 ft 3 m
Weight
33,069 lb 15,000 kg
Tonnage
16.5 tons LIGHT
(Showcased structural values pertain to the base Avibras X-40 production variant. Length typically includes main gun in forward position if applicable to the design)
Powerplant:
1 x Saab-Scania diesel-fueled engine developing 280 horsepower.
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Brazil
