Defence in brief: UK picks ISTEC for M270A2 smoke grenade launchers

The British MoD has selected ISTEC to provide its smoke discharger system (SDS) for its modernisation of the M270 multiple launch rocket system, according to a 16th January. The upgraded vehicles, dubbed M270A2 will be fitted with the ISL 66SD/4 which is a four-barrel, vehicle-mounted SDS designed to fire all natures of UK in-service 66mm munitions. The system can come in different configurations including 2, 3 and 4 barrel setups, the system also includes a fire control unit. ISTEC announced a connected contract in 2024, which covered the supply of 65 mounts for the General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) on the M270A2. 

The UK received its first M270A2s in 2023 with delivery initially expected to be completed by 2026. The improved vehicles are fitted with new launcher modules and an improved armoured cab as well as the Common Fire Control System, that enables them to fire new munitions like the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM). In 2024 the British MoD revealed that it would expand its fleet of M270A2s to 85 from 26 held in operational use. This will be achieved by modernising reserve vehicles and procuring surplus platforms from partner nations. The platform users will be expanded from the current 26th Regiment Royal Artillery to include the 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery, and 101st Regiment Royal Artillery, a reserve regiment.

By Sam Cranny-Evans, published on 17th January 2025.