OVERVIEW: The Type 81H is an unguided, 122mm surface-to-surface rocket developed by China for naval and land-based multiple launch systems. It is used primarily for area suppression and coastal bombardment.

DETAILS: The Type 81H is based on the standard 122mm artillery rocket design, compatible with 40-tube launchers derived from the BM-21 Grad. It uses a fin-stabilized, spin-stabilized configuration with an approximate range of 10 km and is equipped with a high-explosive fragmentation warhead. The system can be integrated into fixed or rotating launch modules for land or naval use, notably on amphibious vessels. Its core function remains area denial and support fire over short to medium ranges.

The H designation refers to its deployment on naval platforms, especially the Type 074 landing ships, where it is integrated into deck-mounted 40-round launcher arrays.

It is fired in salvos or single rounds via shipboard or ground-based fire control systems. Launchers are manually or electrically traversed and elevated, and reloading is conducted manually or with prepared rocket crates.

NOTE:
IOC: 1990s
Operators: China
Platforms: Type 074 landing ship
Conflict used in: None confirmed

SOURCE:
China Defense White Papers ; Jane’s Land Warfare Platforms: Artillery & Air Defence ; PLA Navy Equipment Handbook ; Naval Recognition Guide PLAN 2020 Edition ; NORINCO Catalog Publications