Russia to Make MLRS Rockets Lighter by Replacing Metal with Polymer

Rockets and missiles for use in Russian multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) will be made lighter by replacing metal with polymer-composites parts in certain areas.
This will reduce the cost of production, make the hull lighter, and the missile will fly further with the same dimensions, Alexander Smirnov, General Director of NPO Splav ( part of stte-owned Rostec), said this on "Military Acceptance" early this week.
“We are not standing still and, receiving feedback from the troops (regarding MLRS rockets), we understand that this system can be upgraded. Including, to carry out a significant reduction in the cost and weight of products. We plan to use composite materials to a greater extent,” Smirnov said.
Rockets fired from Russian MLRS systems such as 'Smersh' and 'Grad' are one of the most heavily used equipment in Ukraine and other war zones in the world. Of late, guiding MLRS fire by drones has made them highly accurate.
Russia earlier did not have expertise in the manufacture of polymer composites. However, sanction imposed for the MC-21 airliner project, whose wings are made of composites, forced Russia to set up manufacturing facilities in these non-metal meterials for aerospace manufacturing.