The 9A52-2 Smerch-M is a Soviet heavy multiple rocket launcher. The system is designed to defeat personnel, armored, and soft-skinned targets in concentration areas, artillery batteries, command posts and ammunition depots. It was created in the early 1980s and entered service in the Soviet Army in 1989. When first observed by the West in 1983, it received the code MRL 280mm M1983. It is expected to be superseded by the 9A52-4 Tornado.
The 9A52-2 launcher with all supporting equipment, including the 9T234-2 Transloader, and the 1K123 Vivary Fire Control System, is referred to as the complex 9K58. The first export customer for the 9A52 (12-round) system was Kuwait, with 27 systems delivered, with the United Arab Emirates being the second customer. China has also purchased this system from Russia. The weapon's accuracy is also claimed to have been improved.
