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.
Power & Performance Those special qualities that separate one land system design from another. Performance specifications presented assume optimal operating conditions for the Avibras X-40 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS).
1 x Saab-Scania diesel-fueled engine developing 280 horsepower. Installed Power
34 mph 55 kph Road Speed
217 miles 350 km Range
Structure The physical qualities of the Avibras X-40 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS).
4 (MANNED) Crew
15.1 ft 4.6 meters O/A Length
7.4 ft 2.25 meters O/A Width
9.8 ft 3 meters O/A Height
33,069 lb 15,000 kg | 16.5 tons Weight
Armament & Ammunition Available supported armament, ammunition, and special-mission equipment featured in the design of the Avibras X-40 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS).
3 x X-40 single-stage solid-fueled rockets in launcher unit.
AMMUNITION: 3 x Rocket; reloads dependent upon ammunition carrier.
Variants Notable series variants as part of the Avibras X-40 family line.
X-40 - Base Series Designation; X-40 rockets with launcher unit fitted atop the existing chassis of the Bernardini X1A Light Tank.
Operators Global customers who have evaluated and/or operated the Avibras X-40. Nations are displayed by flag, each linked to their respective national land systems listing.
Total Production: 50 Units Contractor(s): Avibras / Bernardini - Brazil
[ Brazil ]
Going Further... The Avibras X-40 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) appears in the following collections:
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