Ukraine turns old Grads into modern weapons: project could cover over 100 units

Defense Express reported the information.

The initiative was confirmed by Commander of Ukraine’s National Guard, Oleksandr Pivnenko, who shared images and details of the upgraded systems on social media. 

“One of the most noticeable improvements is the replacement of the old Ural-375D chassis (from the 2B5 combat vehicle) with a MAN 6x6 platform, significantly boosting the Grad’s mobility and off-road performance,” the agency notes. In addition, the updated system includes the option to carry extra ammunition, increasing battlefield endurance.

Pivnenko also highlighted the installation of modern digital fire control and guidance systems. These upgrades enhance targeting precision and reduce reaction time. Electric drives with remote control in vertical and horizontal guidance systems have also been added, providing better operational efficiency and safety for the crew.

Comfort and protection have not been overlooked. The revamped BM-21s now feature a redesigned cockpit offering improved crew ergonomics and internal layout, along with electronic warfare (EW) systems to counter drone threats.

While the exact number of modernized vehicles remains classified, open-source estimates provide a rough picture of Ukraine’s modernization potential. According to The Military Balance, the Ukrainian army had more than 190 BM-21 Grad systems as of 2022. However, the Oryx tracking group reports the loss of 54 such systems to date — including 38 destroyed, 12 damaged, and four captured — suggesting that approximately 150 Grads could still be available for upgrade. Meanwhile, the 2024 edition of The Military Balance notes that about 100 Grad systems remain in Ukrainian service.