Type 63 Rocket Launcher

Go Back to Rocket Artillery

Go Back To Weapons Home

	Weapon: Type 63 Rocket Launcher Type: Rocket Artillery Country of Origin: China Year Adopted: 1963 Caliber: 106.7mm Action: Multiple Launch Rocket System Overall Length (mm): 1050.0 Weight (kg): 5.00 Effective Range (m): 250

The Type 63 Rocket Launcher is a Chinese multiple rocket launcher (MRL) system introduced in the early 1960s. Its design is based on the Soviet BM-14 system, reflecting China's efforts to develop indigenous artillery systems during the Cold War. The Type 63 features a 12-tube launch assembly capable of firing 107mm rockets, with a range of approximately 8 to 11 kilometers, depending on the rocket variant. Lightweight and easily transportable, the system can be mounted on various platforms, including trucks, jeeps, and even hand-pulled carriages, making it highly versatile and suitable for guerrilla warfare.

Production of the Type 63 began in the 1960s and continued for several decades, with tens of thousands of units manufactured. The system's simplicity and effectiveness led to widespread use by China's military and export to numerous allied nations and insurgent groups. Over the years, China and other countries have developed numerous variants and improved rockets, enhancing the launcher's capabilities. Its affordability and ease of operation have contributed to its adoption by over 40 countries, making it one of the most widely used MRL systems globally.

The Type 63 earned notoriety for its role in various conflicts, particularly in guerrilla and asymmetric warfare. Its ability to deliver a concentrated barrage of rockets made it a powerful tool for saturating enemy positions. The launcher saw extensive use in the Vietnam War, the Middle East, and African conflicts. Its durability, low cost, and effectiveness in delivering devastating firepower ensure that the Type 63 remains in service with numerous militaries and non-state actors, cementing its place in the history of modern artillery systems.