Belarus to supply Polonez multiple launch rocket system to Azerbaijan - reports

Belarus start delivering its multiple launch rocket systems Polonez to Azerbaijan as early as this year, reports Russian newspaper Kommersant citing two "top managers in the Russian defense industry." The deal is reportedly in the final stage - only financial matters to be finalized. Under the deal, Belarus will supply 10 Polonez systems.

Observers describe the deal as a somwhat delayed answer by Baku to the supply by Russia of Iskander tactical ballistic missiles to Armenia. Relations between Baku and Yerevan remain tense over the disputed Nagorny Katabakh region.

Polonez was publicly showcased for the first time during a Victory Day parade in 2015 in Minsk. It entered service with Belarusian Armed Forces in 2016. Polonez rockets has an initial firing range of 200 km. After upgrade in 2017, the range was increased up to almost 300 km.