YEREVAN, March 30. /TASS/. Russia’s Tecmash Research and Production Group plans to develop a small-caliber multiple launch rocket system with robotic elements capable of striking helicopters and drones, Tecmash Deputy CEO Alexander Kochkin said at the ArmHiTec-2018 exhibition on Friday.

The new weapon is intended for use in the Airborne Force, marine infantry and Special Forces, the deputy chief executive said.

"We are setting the aim of creating a system capable of hitting both ground and air targets. It will be capable of striking helicopters and drones in the close proximity of 1.5-2 km and at an altitude of no more than 1 km," Kochkin said.

The company plans to work out technical specifications jointly with the Defense Ministry for the new multiple launch rocket system in the near future, he said.

"I believe that the Airborne Force, marine infantry and Special Forces that operate in separation from the main military contingent will display interest [in the new weapon]. They need fire support from these systems," the Tecmash deputy chief executive said.

According to Kochkin, the new multiple launch rocket system will fire specially designed shells and 50-80mm aircraft rockets already accepted for service and will incorporate robotic remote control elements.

The new weapon will also get automated reload and land navigation systems. The robotic multiple launch rocket system will feature an automated multichannel guidance and fire control system allowing it to effectively hit targets at night and amid smoke and dustiness on the battlefield.