China has covertly sold SR-5 and WM-120 rocket systems to Jordan, according to reports by Defence Express. The revelation surfaced during recent Jordanian military exercises where these Chinese weapons were prominently displayed. Neither Jordanian nor Chinese authorities had previously disclosed these arms deliveries, indicating a significant but discreet transaction in the global arms market.

The display of these Chinese rocket systems by the Jordanian army marks China's successful entry into the Middle Eastern arms market. Jordan, which also maintains close military ties with the United States, has now expanded its arsenal with Chinese weaponry. Jordan's military inventory already includes 12 American M142 HIMARS launchers and 18 Chinese WM-80 rocket systems, which were acquired around the same time in early 2010.

The SR-5 is a versatile Chinese multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) introduced in 2012. It is known for its high mobility and efficiency, requiring a three-person crew and only five minutes to prepare for firing. After launching an attack, the SR-5 is usually moved to a new location to avoid counterattacks. It has two rocket pods with a range of up to 70 km, capable of holding 12 rounds of 220 mm ammunition or a pod with 20 rockets of 122 mm Caliber. The rockets are guided by a combination of GPS and inertial navigation systems.

The WM-120, another Chinese MLRS, is designed to target heavily armoured units. It is an upgraded version of the older WM-80 system. The WM-120 launcher fires 273 mm rockets powered by solid fuel, with a maximum range of 120 km and a minimum range of 34 km. This system is noted for its high accuracy, achieving a precision of up to 20 meters through its advanced inertial navigation system.

Image source: Reuters