According to a video published on the Twitter account of Jesus Roman on May 28, 2022, China has delivered at least 6 AR2 300 mm MLRS Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (R2 is an export designation of the NORINCO PHL-03), 2 Wanshan WS2400 TELs (Transporter Erector Launcher), and 2 Wanshan WS2500 TELs. After years of U.S.-supplied weapons in the 1990s and early 2000s, Cambodia switched to its former ally of the Khmer Rouge period (1973-1989) to buy a wide range of tanks, armored and soft-skin vehicles, and weapons.
The PHL-03, also referred to as the Type 03 Multiple Launch Rocket System is a Chinese version of the Soviet BM-30 Smerch. It was developed by NORINCO and reportedly entered service with the Chinese army in 2004-2005. The PHL-03 is also being proposed for export customers as the AR2. It is in service with Morocco: one battalion is equipped with 36 units.
The PHL-03 retains the original Russian configuration with 12 launch tubes for 300 mm artillery rockets. A standard rocket weighs around 800 kg and has a 280 kg warhead. The maximum range of fire is 70-130 km depending on the warhead type. Rockets are available with High Explosive Fragmentation (HE-FRAG), fuel-air explosive, and cluster warheads with anti-armor and anti-personnel submunitions. Cluster warheads may also carry self-targeting anti-tank munitions. A full salvo of this system could potentially cover an area of up to 67 hectares.