According to Military Watch Magazine, the People’s Liberation Army has expanded the arsenal of its PCL-191 multiple launch rocket system with a new type of munition designed to strike targets with a dense cloud of high-velocity metal fragments.

The publication highlighted a recent demonstration of new rockets for the PCL-191. After detonating in the air, the warhead disperses a large number of damaging elements over a wide area.

Military Watch Magazine says the weapon appears to be intended primarily for suppressing personnel and lightly armored vehicles. The outlet believes the so-called «Steel Rain» munition could significantly broaden the range of targets that can be engaged by the PCL-191.

According to the report, the high-speed fragments could be used against troops, aircraft parked in the open, unarmored vehicles and electronic warfare systems that are not protected by shelters.

The publication also argues that such a rocket could be especially useful during the opening phase of a major conflict. Rather than attempting to destroy every military facility outright, artillery could be used to disable infrastructure and communications networks that those facilities depend on.

The PCL-191 can carry eight 300mm rockets or two larger missiles. Its arsenal also includes a ballistic missile with a range of up to 480 kilometers and a cruise missile with a range of 180 kilometers.