Z (10) BM-21 Grad (Russia)

Next in line the ubiquitous BM-21 Grad ("Hail"). This self-propelled 122mm multiple rocket launcher has acquired a sad worldwide media celebrity due to his omnipresence in many conflicts around the world since it entered service with the Soviet Army in 1963. Based on a Ural-375D 6x6 truck (later replaced by the Ural-4320), the 40 launch tubes are arranged in a rectangular shape tant can be turned away from the unprotected cab. The 40 rockets can be fired in as little as 20 seconds, individually or in small groups with a range of 20 km (30 km for some newer types). The BM-21 is not an accurate artillery system but more a saturating one.

The kit is from ICM and is one of the worts I have had to build so far. Bad instructions, bad adjustment of the parts, fragility of these... and bad luck throughout the construction process will not leave me with good memories. Nevertheless I appreciated the painting process and I am more than satisfied with the result and the general look of the machine. Will have to try the Ural 4320 version by HobbyBoss next.

Z (9) Khrizantema-S (Russia)

Another Khrizantema-S tank destroyer to continue my Z production line.

Same nice 3d print model by STAN models (design by Yevhenii Kalinichenko) as my previous entry, but this time in march order. Corrected the exterior missiles reloading system, opened some hatches to put crew from Germania Figuren and added some bits here and there.

Z (8) Khrizantema-S (Russia)

Next one on my Z production line, the 9P157-2 Khrizantema-S tank destroyer. Based on the BMP-3 chassis, the  Khrizantema-S carries two 9M123 missiles on launch rails, with, like the radar, is extended from a stowed transit position when engaging targets. Missiles are re-loaded automatically from an internal magazine with 15 rounds and can also accept munitions manually loaded from outside the vehicle. Equipped with an IRR/TV sight with laser rangefinder and with a dual guidance system to ensure protection against electronic countermeasures, the Khrizantema-S is able to operate in all climatic conditions, day or night. The 9M123 Khrizantema missile is a powerful supersonic missile with a range between 400 and 6,000 meters that can be guided by laser or radar.

The model is a 3d print by STAN models (design by Yevhenii Kalinichenko). A very nice model on which I only had to correct the exterior missiles reloading system and add some antennas, an unditching beam and a few shovels. I only regret the lack of details inside the missiles bay.