Well, it doesn’t, but what to do? I have to say so ... :-)
Portable anti-aircraft missile systems have long and firmly taken their place in the system of mobile air defense systems of the ground forces of many countries. The new Russian MANPADS have unique capabilities that the military had never dreamed of before.
First, about the uniqueness of "Willow". With the external similarity of this MANPADS with its predecessors - the same "pipe" as in the "Needle", the same sighting mechanism that helps the anti-aircraft gunner to determine the target and fire a shot - this is a completely different weapon with different characteristics. And they are in the fact that the rocket is capable of striking not only traditional aircraft - planes and helicopters, but also cruise missiles, as well as unmanned aircrafts, that is, the so-called "low-emitting targets".
The missile of this complex is equipped with a unique three-spectrum homing head operating in the ultraviolet, near-infrared and mid-infrared ranges. It is this difference in the spectra that allows you to get more information about the target, which makes MANPADS a "selective" weapon. In addition, the "Verba" head has a significantly higher sensitivity in comparison with the "Igla-S" MANPADS. This increases the capture range of airborne objects. Also, the seeker automatically selects false thermal targets (thermal interference) and focuses on the object with the strongest thermal radiation.
As the representative of the enterprise-developer of this weapon emphasized - the general designer of the Scientific and Production Corporation “ Design department mechanical engineering "(OJSC" NPK "KBM") Valery Kashin, in terms of the aggregate characteristics of the MANPADS "Verba" surpasses all world analogues. And this is not some kind of bragging of the designer for his brainchild. The complex actually has significantly improved characteristics for overcoming pyrotechnic interference (including the already mentioned heat traps), increased firing accuracy, and optimized other indicators. For example, an automated control system detects air targets, including group targets, determines the parameters of their flight and even distributes the found objects among the gunners in an anti-aircraft unit, taking into account the location of personnel on the ground.
MANPADS is not in vain stands for "complex". In addition to the rocket in the guide tube, the Verba also includes a launching mechanism, a friend-or-foe ground radar interrogator (to prevent unauthorized use on its aircraft), as well as a mobile checkpoint, a small-sized radar detector, planning, reconnaissance and management. There is also a portable fire control module, which is supplied to the troops in a brigade kit, and a built-in mounting kit for use as part of a divisional kit.
In terms of its characteristics, the missile is more than optimal for portable anti-aircraft weapons on the battlefield. The new solid-propellant engine makes it possible to perform a successful shot at an object located at a distance of over six kilometers from the shooter and flying at a speed of 500 meters per second. The mass of the rocket is only one and a half kilograms, but at the same time the height of the defeat varies from ten (!) To 4.5 thousand meters. The closest foreign competitor of the Russian MANPADS, the American FIM-92 "Stinger" complex, can only be used against air targets located at an altitude of 180 meters. That is, the enemy's helicopter will be able to calmly shoot at the positions of the American infantry from a height below this mark: it will be simply impossible to hit a hovering rotorcraft from the Stinger. The US MANPADS have not the most worthy performance in terms of other characteristics. So, the height of the target that the Stinger missile can reach cannot exceed 3.8 thousand meters, and the distance from the shooter's location is 4.8 thousand.
The new Russian MANPADS was presented at the ARMY-2015 International Military-Technical Forum. As the manufacturers note, an important feature of the product is also that the complex allows you to destroy air targets with a smaller number of missiles, which saves the missiles of large anti-aircraft missile systems - a very expensive weapon.
According to General Designer of OJSC NPK KBM Valery Kashin, today the Russian Ministry of Defense has signed contracts for the supply of the Verba complexes to the troops in a complete version, that is, for immediately arming anti-aircraft units of brigades and divisions. Prior to this, the product passed the stage of practical testing in the formations of the Airborne Forces and in the brigades of the Eastern Military District. According to the military, the use of new MANPADS will provide reliable cover for military units from air attacks using modern countermeasures to air defense systems, and protect against massive strikes cruise missiles, create an effective short-range defense line.
Alexander Smirnov, chief designer of the scientific and technical direction of JSC NPK KBM for MANPADS, is confident that the adoption of the Verba into service will make it possible to make a giant gap from competitors and consolidate Russian leadership in this area for many years. The principle of complete delivery, when troops immediately receive all the components necessary for the performance of a combat mission, operation, inspection, maintenance, training and training, makes it possible to ensure the full combat readiness of units, to form and maintain skills in the use of missile systems in personnel.
The "Verba" has simplified maintenance: now there is no need to carry out periodic checks with the cooling of the homing head with nitrogen. This makes it possible to abandon additional equipment, nitrogen storage facilities, and save human resources. The commander of the anti-aircraft missile regiment of the 98th airborne division, Colonel Andrei Musienko (this unit also tested the Verba MANPADS) emphasizes that with the arrival of the new complex, the process of controlling the air combat in the Airborne Forces units has accelerated more than 10 times. Previously, it took more than three to five minutes from the moment the senior commander detected the target until the missile was launched by the anti-aircraft gunner, now - only a few seconds. Such parameters, according to the officers of the military level, fully correspond to the needs of modern anti-aircraft combat - highly mobile and dynamic counteraction to air attack weapons, requiring the use of modern weapons and their operational control.
By the way, the "Verba" MANPADS, which includes elements of an automated control system, are fully compatible with the Andromeda-D automated control system used in the Airborne Forces. The "Verba" showed itself quite well and during one of the paratroopers' exercises in Arctic zone... Even in conditions of abnormally low temperatures, no failures or failures in the use of this weapon and its control systems occurred. Valery Kashin, general designer of NPK KBM, OJSC, noted that at the moment a naval and helicopter version of the Verba is under development.
At the military-technical forum "Army-2015" held last week, the complex was presented to the public for the first time. Business Insider emphasizes that in the future, the Verba MANPADS, which surpasses all world analogues, can become a threat to the United States and its allies.
It overcomes pyrotechnic interference ten times more efficiently than its predecessors. And the zone of capture and defeat, in comparison, say, with the "Needle" has increased by 2.5 times. In addition, missiles with MANPADS are directed to targets using a three-spectrum optical finder that works in the ultraviolet, near infrared and mid-infrared ranges, which increases the accuracy of the weapon and speeds up target acquisition, the media notes. Another advantage of the "Verba" is that the homing system of the complex is capable of deceiving anti-missile systems... The use of MANPADS does not require special skills.
According to the American publication, the export of such a complex is a "threatening event."
« There are dozens of irregular forces and terrorist groups that want to get their hands on something like the Verba MANPADS, and they can use it to harm the United States or allies“- writes Business Insider.
And what other countries have.
USA - FIM-92 Stinger
Since the beginning of the eighties, the armed forces of the United States and a number of foreign countries have been using FIM-92 Stinger MANPADS. Over the past decades, this complex has undergone several upgrades aimed at improving its characteristics. Primarily. the guidance and control systems underwent improvements, which led to a noticeable increase in characteristics. In addition, certain measures are being taken to increase the service life.
Stinger complexes of all modifications have a similar composition. As part of these MANPADS, an anti-aircraft missile is used in a transport-launch container, a launch mechanism, an optical sight for visual preliminary guidance of a missile, a unit with an electric battery and a refrigerant, as well as "friend or foe" identification equipment.
FIM-92 MANPADS missiles of all modifications are built according to the "canard" scheme and are equipped with solid-propellant rocket engines. The missiles are equipped with dual-range infrared homing heads. Recent modernization projects provide for the use of GOS operating in both infrared and ultraviolet ranges. Such equipment provides more effective target detection and is less susceptible to interference.
Rockets of all modifications have a length of about 1500 mm and a body diameter of 70 mm. The launch weight of the rocket is about 10 kg. In a combat position, the complex weighs about 15-16 kg. The solid-propellant rocket engine used provides a flight speed of up to 700-750 m / s. A high-explosive fragmentation warhead weighing 2.3 kg is used to hit the target. The latest modifications of the Stinger complex are capable of flying at a distance of up to 8 km and hitting targets at altitudes up to 3.5 km.
The FIM-92 Stinger complex was adopted by the US Army in 1981 and soon replaced similar systems in its class. In addition, the Stinger MANPADS was supplied to a large number of foreign countries... Such systems were actively used in various armed conflicts, starting with the battles for the Falkland Islands. There are projects of using Stinger missiles as weapons of ground-based air defense systems. In addition, such weapons can be used by aircraft of several types.
UK - Starstreak
In 1997, the UK adopted the Starstreak MANPADS, which had been in development since the mid-eighties. In this complex, it was proposed to use a number of original ideas. An interesting feature of the complex is the ability to perform in three configurations: portable, lightweight easel and self-propelled. Moreover, all variants are equipped with the same equipment and use the same missile.
The main element of the Starstreak MANPADS is the Starstreak HVM (High Velocity Missile) guided missile. Like other products of its class, this missile is delivered in a transport and launch container that docks with other elements of the complex. The Starstreak HVM missile is very different from other anti-aircraft weapons. Instead of the traditional high-explosive fragmentation warhead, an original one, consisting of three independent combat units, is installed on it. At the head of the rocket, three arrow-shaped striking elements are mounted, which are equipped with their own guidance systems and high-explosive fragmentation warheads.
For some reason, the authors of the project from Thales Air Defense decided to use semi-active laser guidance in the Starstreak complex. Before launching and until the target is hit, the operator of the complex must hold the aiming mark on the attacked object, illuminating it with a laser beam. According to some reports, in versions of self-propelled and easel air defense systems, automatic target tracking can be used.
After detecting and acquiring a target for tracking, the operator must launch, continuing to track the target. With the help of the starting engine, the rocket leaves the container and turns on the main engine. With the help of the latter, the rocket overcomes a certain distance to the target. After the solid fuel charge is depleted, three arrow-shaped striking elements are dropped. They, using their own systems, find a target and aim at it. It is argued that the use of three arrow-shaped elements can increase the likelihood of hitting a target. Once on an enemy plane or helicopter, the arrow-shaped munition penetrates its skin and damages the internal components, and then explodes, increasing the damage.
The Starstreak HVM rocket has a length of 1.37 m and a maximum body diameter of 130 mm. The weight of the transport and launch container with a rocket is about 14 kg. Arrow-shaped striking elements 45 cm long and 2 cm in diameter are equipped with small stabilizers and rudders. The total mass of three miniature warheads mounted on striking elements is about 900 g. The Starstreak air defense system can hit targets at ranges up to 6 km and altitudes up to 5 km.
Starstreak HVM missiles can be used in several types of anti-aircraft complexes. First of all, this is a portable version, which uses a trigger and some other equipment. In addition, there is a modification of the LML, which is based on a lightweight machine for three containers with missiles and guidance equipment. For installation on self-propelled chassis, the Starstreak SP combat module with mounts for eight containers and a set special equipment.
The main operator of Starstreak MANPADS is the British Armed Forces. Since the beginning of the 2000s, a number of systems of this family have been supplied to foreign countries: Indonesia, Thailand and South Africa.
France - Mistral
Since the end of the eighties, the French military have been using Mistral MANPADS, developed by Matra BAE Dynamics (now part of the MBDA concern). In the mid-nineties, an updated modification of the complex appeared, having higher characteristics in comparison with the basic version. In addition, on the basis of this MANPADS, several options were developed. anti-aircraft systems differing from each other in basic machines, etc.
Despite all the efforts of the developers, the missile of the Mistral complex turned out to be quite heavy - its starting weight reaches 18.7 kg. The mass of the rocket with a transport and launch container is 24 kg. For this reason, the authors of the project had to use an interesting solution that compensates for the large weight of the rocket, but significantly reduces the mobility of the complex in comparison with other systems of its class. All units of the portable version of the complex are mounted on a machine of a special design. A vertical stand with a small seat for the operator and holders for the transport and launch container of the rocket is attached to the tripod support. In addition, the rack mounts sights... With the help of such a machine, the operator can direct the rocket in two planes.
The missile of the Mistral complex has a configuration and equipment standard for such products. At the same time, it was not without original ideas. Thus, the rocket nose fairing has the shape of a polyhedral pyramid, which improves aerodynamic characteristics in comparison with traditional spherical fairings. The infrared seeker is built on the basis of a mosaic-type receiver, due to which it can find targets with a reduced radiation level, as well as distinguish them from interference and reflected radiation.
MANPADS Mistral is equipped with one of the largest missiles in its class. Its length reaches 1.86 m, the hull diameter is 90 mm, and its weight with a transport and launch container is 24 kg. The rocket is equipped with a launch and sustainer solid-propellant engines. The propulsion system accelerates the rocket up to 800 m / s. Locking of an "airplane" -type target is provided at ranges of up to 6 km, which is equal to the maximum range of the missile's flight. The maximum height of the defeat is 3 km. When using the Mistral complex to attack other targets, such as helicopters, the maximum range and height of detection and destruction are reduced. The target is defeated using a high-explosive fragmentation warhead weighing 3 kg. The warhead is equipped with contact and remote laser fuses.
Despite the large size and lack of serious advantages over other modern counterparts, the French-made Mistral complex interested not only the French armed forces, but also the military of other states. This MANPADS in various modifications was supplied to 25 countries of the world. In the interests of foreign armies, they were produced as systems in
basic configuration and anti-aircraft systems based on self-propelled chassis.
China - FN-6
In the late nineties, the Shanghai Academy of Space Technology took up the project of a new portable anti-aircraft missile system. New development under the name FN-6 was first demonstrated in 2000. By this time, the complex was mass-produced and supplied to the part of the People's Liberation Army of China. Later, contracts were signed for the supply of such systems to foreign countries.
In terms of the general architecture and composition, the FN-6 MANPADS is a typical representative of the weapons of its class. It includes a transport and launch container with a rocket, a launcher and a set of special equipment. Like other missiles of this class, the ammunition of the FN-6 complex is equipped with an infrared seeker. A photodetector with four cells that receive target radiation is used. The seeker is covered with a pyramidal fairing. According to some reports, the Chinese-developed seeker is capable of finding a target using active jamming.
The rocket is 1.49 m long with a diameter of 71 mm and weighs 10.8 kg. The mass of the complex, ready to use, is 16 kg. The rocket leaves the container with the help of the starting engine, after which the sustainer is turned on. The solid-propellant propulsion engine accelerates the rocket to a speed of about 600 m / s. It provides destruction of targets at ranges of up to 6 km and altitudes of 15-3800 m. When firing on a collision course, the FN-6 MANPADS can hit targets moving at a speed of up to 800 m; when firing in pursuit, the target speed is limited to 500 m / s. In flight, the rocket can maneuver with an overload of up to 18 units.
MANPADS FN-6 was created by order of the People's Liberation Army of China, which received weapons from the first serial batches. In the future, such weapons were acquired by several foreign countries: Malaysia, Cambodia, Sudan, Pakistan, Syria, etc.
It is known about the development of upgraded versions of the FN-6 complex. So, in 2006, the FN-16 complex with increased characteristics was presented for the first time. According to some reports, the missile of this MANPADS is equipped with a dual-band homing head, which significantly increases its resistance to interference. Other modifications of the complex were also created.
The link to the article this copy was made from isThe Verba MANPADS is the newest Russian portable anti-aircraft missile system, which entered service in 2014. This weapon has just begun to enter combat units, the anti-aircraft gunners of the 98th Guards Airborne Division (Ivanovo) were the first to receive this MANPADS.
The anti-aircraft complex was presented to potential foreign customers at the Defexpo India exhibition in 2019. Rosoboronexport expects that not only the Indian military, but also the defense departments of Algeria, Egypt and a number of other countries will show interest in the Verba complex.
MANPADS "Verba" is designed to destroy low-flying air targets (both on a collision course and on a catch-up course) in conditions of enemy opposition and the use of false thermal targets. This anti-aircraft missile system is especially effective for destroying stealthy targets: unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles.
Several new and original technical solutions have been used in the new anti-aircraft complex, which allows it to more effectively engage enemy aircraft and carry out anti-aircraft defense. When developing the "Verba", the rich experience in the development and use of domestic weapons of this class was taken into account. Very often, the Verba MANPADS is called a new generation weapon that surpasses not only Soviet and Russian developments (Igla-1, Igla, Igla-S), but also the best foreign counterparts: the American Stinger-Block-I and Chinese QW-2.
History of creation
The first information about the "Verba" MANPADS appeared back in 2008. However, the reports were rather sparse and vague. It was argued that the "Verba" would be put into service in 2009, but these terms were constantly postponed. In 2011, military tests of the new complex began, but its adoption into service was delayed until 2014.
The complex was developed by the Kolomna "Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering" - one of the world leaders in the creation of such weapons.
Currently, the new MANPADS entered service with the Ivanovo airborne division. It is planned that in the coming years "Verba" will be supplied to other units of the Russian army and will replace outdated anti-aircraft missile systems.
Description
MANPADS "Verba" is designed to destroy low-flying air targets (aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, cruise missiles) on catch-up and collision courses. The firing range of MANPADS is 6 km, and the target destruction height is 4 km. The complex includes a missile with an infrared homing head (GOS), which is guided in three ranges at once, which significantly increases its characteristics and efficiency of use. A similar principle is implemented on most modern MANPADS (for example, the GOS MANPADS "Igla" has two channels), but only "Verba" uses three separate photodetectors, each of which operates in its own range. In this regard, one can really say that the "Verba" is really a new generation MANPADS.
In addition, the missile seeker is protected from laser jamming systems that are installed on modern combat aircraft and helicopters.
Another feature of the complex is the presence of an automated control system (ACS), which detects airborne objects, determines the parameters of their flight, and also distributes targets between anti-aircraft gunners in one unit.
A common problem when using MANPADS is the untimely detection of flying objects. Previously, MANPADS calculations tried to visually detect the target, but this is not always an easy task.
To further complicate the work of anti-aircraft gunners, pilots often fly at low or ultra-low altitudes. In this case, the enemy aircraft appears in the field of view suddenly, moves at high speed, so it is difficult for the fighter to react in time and prepare for firing.
The automated control system for the "Verba" MANPADS includes a small and anti-jamming radar station that can detect an air target at distances of up to 80 km. After that, the anti-aircraft gunners are given a sound signal about the presence of the enemy, the ACS using the GLONASS system determines the location of the shooter and gives him the azimuth for firing.
The Verba anti-aircraft complex is part of the Barnaul-T tactical air defense complex, it is integrated into the general air defense system and can receive information about air targets from their higher-level detection systems.
The Verba MANPADS includes the following components:
- trigger mechanism 9P521;
- surveillance radar 1L122 with a target detection range of 40-80 km;
- guided missile 9М336;
- system for determining "friend or foe";
- mobile checkpoint 9В861;
- reconnaissance and control, planning and fire control module;
- mounting kit 9S933-1 (for the division);
- anti-aircraft gunner automation kit 9S935;
- means for education and training of personnel.
The 9M336 missile has a new solid-propellant engine with higher performance compared to the MANPADS currently in service with the Russian army. The rocket has an increased warhead, and it is also equipped with an adaptive contact-non-contact fuse. The complex also includes a Mowgli-2M night vision sight, which allows you to fire at night and in conditions of limited visibility.
Another undoubted advantage of "Verba" is the simplification of its maintenance. Now the seeker does not need to be regularly cooled with liquid nitrogen. This allows you to dispense with additional equipment, refrigerant containers, save time and effort.
The commander of the anti-aircraft regiment of the 98th airborne division, which has already entered service with the "Verba" MANPADS, said that the new complexes can significantly reduce the deployment time of calculations. Previously, it could take up to five minutes from detecting a target to opening fire, but now this period has decreased by almost ten times.
Is interest in shoulder-launched and tripod-launched surface-to-air missiles resurgent with the advancement of empowering technologies and the financially justified need to do more for less? Opinions of Western experts in this area.
Recent advances in microprocessor and propulsion technology have significantly expanded the range and accuracy of modern man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS), allowing them to neutralize the vastly expanded range of long-range air targets with unprecedented efficiency.
Shoulder-launched missiles offer defensive and offensive capabilities out of proportion to their size, allowing a single MANPADS soldier to shoot down virtually any aircraft within range of the system. In addition, the new systems are capable of shooting down smaller air targets such as drones and ballistic missiles.
The missile of the "fire-and-forget" type Mistral MANPADS, according to MBDA, has advantages over a laser-guided missile
The advanced capabilities offered by next-generation MANPADS are generating increased interest among large military forces seeking to optimize the combat effectiveness of small combat units and finding ways to mitigate the negative impact of shrinking budgets.
British can
Thales UK has continuously improved its Starstreak short-range surface-to-air missile system since it entered service with the British Army in 1997. Starstreak, which replaced the Javelin MANPADS of the same company, was created to provide close air defense against threats such as fighters and attack helicopters.
The newest modification, designated Starstreak II HVM (High Velocity Missile), is a development of the existing model, which has significantly increased range and accuracy, as well as improved performance, allowing you to work on targets at much higher altitudes.
Paddy Mallon, chief missile systems technologist at Thales UK, said Starstreak II is pushing the boundaries when it comes to very short-range air defense systems (VSHORADS).
“Starstreak II is arguably the most advanced anti-aircraft missile in the world VSHORADS, as it was constantly being improved, in conjunction with the Ministry of Defense, modernizations were regularly carried out in the middle stage of operation. Now the missile's range has reached about 7 km, that is, it is a very effective weapon both against short-range high-speed targets that cross the line of sight, and against long-range targets. "
“The rocket has a very high acceleration, which means about 3.5 Mach numbers per second; that is, you have a super-high-speed rocket, which, moreover, due to its high speed, also provides a large lateral acceleration. Thus, you are able to intercept high-speed targets that cross the line of sight, and you can also fire a missile at long range. "
The missile consists of three arrow-shaped kinetic tungsten submunitions, which have their own guidance and control system; warhead with a deceleration fuse; two-stage solid-propellant rocket engine; expelling charge, operating at the time of launch; and the second stage main engine.
“The key element at the heart of the warhead itself, obviously, is the shock effect, that is, the entire mass of the warhead, the entire mass of the missile strikes the target. Due to the high flight speed (over the entire flight range, the submunitions have sufficient maneuverability to destroy targets flying with an overload of up to 9g), the striking arrow-shaped submunition of the Starstreak rocket penetrates the target's hull, and then explodes inside it, causing maximum damage. While with many other anti-aircraft missiles, you lose most of the debris in the air around the aircraft, and not inside the target itself, ”said Mallon.
Beam guidance
“The Starstreak MANPADS is a means of engaging targets within the line of sight. The complex is not illuminated by a laser in the literal sense; when people talk about laser targeting, they are really talking about high power semi-active laser guidance systems. Thales has developed a laser emitter that is much lower power and therefore undetectable, ”continued Mallon.
“Our laser is scanning, imagine a laser diode scanning from left to right and a second laser diode scanning from bottom to top, and this happens hundreds of times per second. In fact, the laser beam creates an encoded information field, we call it a laser information field, that is, wherever you are inside this field, the submunition that hits it knows where it is. All he is trying to do is to get into the center of this field. "
According to the developer, the system is difficult, if not impossible, to drown out, since the MANPADS transmitter is not activated until the operator presses the trigger, so the target does not know that it has already become a target until the missile leaves the launch tube and goes to the target at a speed exceeding the speed of sound more than three times.
“When you pull the trigger, the transmitter turns on. You, in essence, keep the crosshair on the target, and if the crosshair is on the target, then in this case the center of the laser information field is also on the target, and then the striking projectile is guaranteed to hit the target. "
“There is a small laser receiver window at the rear of the submunition that looks at the launcher. The receiver receives the transmitted information and we use it to keep the submunition in the center of the field. "
The calculation of the complex, as a rule, consists of two people: the operator and the commander. All Thales MANPADS currently on the market use the LML (Lightweight Multiple Launcher) tripod, which is offered in several versions.
“The LML has a launch control unit that includes optics, a thermal imager and a trigger. We also install it on some lightweight platforms for several overseas customers. Our LML tripod with tracking and fire control unit can handle up to three missiles, ”said Mallon.
Update
The Swedish defense company Saab also presented a modernized version of the RBS 70 MANPADS, which has been in service with many countries since the late 60s. The new complex was designated RBS 70 NG. Despite the same designation, the new variant is a completely different system.
The RBS 70 NG is a Command Line-of-Sight (CLOS) laser-guided missile system. The launcher consists of a transport and launch container with a rocket, a tripod and a sight. Although the complex is based on the previous model in order to simplify upgrades, it has a more advanced integrated guidance system and a fourth-generation Bolide missile capable of dealing with targets maneuvering at accelerations of more than 20g (!).
“What's new in the RBS 70 NG guidance system? Integrated thermal imaging sight with a very long detection range for all types of targets, more than 20 km. We have integrated a target tracking machine into the complex, which minimizes the number of control commands sent to the missile on the way to the target. In the previous system, the operators controlled the rocket with a joystick. "
“Here we have left the previous possibilities, the operator can still shoot manually, but with the automatic tracking, everything is much more pleasant. Compared to a human operator, it generates significantly less interference that degrades the characteristics of the missile control system during flight, and as a result, we get greater accuracy ... We have an automatic video recording of the entire firing process, so you can then see how everything happened, what was done whether the target was correctly captured and the like. "
Forsberg explained that the system provides a three-dimensional visual representation of the target, which allows the operator to more confidently engage with the target and reduces the overall response time to one second. Another key feature of the RBS 70 NG MANPADS is its noise immunity.
“We also have the ability to interrupt the firing process at any second, up to the moment the target is intercepted. We have laser-guided receivers at the rear of the rocket and a communication channel directly from the sight to the rocket. Therefore, in order to jam this signal, you need to stand between the sight and the rocket, which is unlikely or even impossible, "Forsberg said.
“We have a remote fuse that is optimized for dealing with small attacking targets such as ballistic missiles... Our complex can actually fight almost all targets, we can shoot at everything, from ground targets at zero altitude to helicopters and fighters at an altitude of 5000 meters, and these are unique characteristics. "
Forsberg said the missile could also penetrate any existing armored personnel carrier, hinting that MANPADS could be used both for self-defense on the ground and for countering attack helicopters with improved crew protection.
Saab's RBS 70 NG "jam-resistant" rocket can be used on a variety of platforms, including vehicles and portable complexes
“There are no other anti-aircraft systems that are capable of fighting ground targets, but we can shoot at anything that is at a distance of 220 to 8 km,” he said. - The interception range of our complex is 8 km. When our competitors talk about firing range, they mean the maximum range, but then we are talking about our maximum range, which is up to 15.7 km. "
Forsberg continued: “Most customers keep their systems either in a platoon configuration or in a division, that is, a division with multiple platoons. A platoon usually consists of three or four fire brigades. Three calculations can cover an area of 460 square kilometers. Compared to any system with infrared homing, then a platoon with such complexes will cover only about 50 square kilometers. "
Autonomous weapons
The European missile manufacturer, MBDA, offers the latest version of its Mistral MANPADS with improved target designation and noise immunity.
The Mistral self-guided missile of the “fire and forget” type has a high-explosive fragmentation warhead weighing 3 kg, which contains ready-made tungsten spherical striking elements (1500 pieces). The warhead itself is equipped with a laser proximity (remote) fuse and a contact fuse, as well as a self-destruction timer.
The infrared seeker is housed inside the pyramidal fairing. This shape has an advantage over the usual spherical one, since it reduces drag. In the seeker (seeker), a mosaic-type receiver is used, made on indium arsenide and operating in the range of 3-5 microns, which significantly increases the ability to detect and lock targets with reduced IR radiation, and also makes it possible to distinguish a useful signal from a false one (the sun, brightly lit clouds, IR traps, etc.); the declared probability of defeat is 93%.
“Currently, in the units of the French army, we are modernizing Mistral MANPADS, installing a new homing head in the missiles,” said a representative of the MBDA company. "Now we have the ability to hit targets with weak thermal unmasking features, such as missiles and UAVs, which was the requirement of the French army and navy."
“We've made significant improvements in our resilience to IR countermeasures, which are typically traps and radiating interference, and we can handle them all. Of course, this increases the detection range of targets with low infrared signature, such as aircraft in frontal projection, when you can not see the engines. "
At present, the effective range of the system is 6.5 km. As a rule, the complex is deployed by two operators, a commander and a gunner. Although it can be deployed by one person, a two-person calculation is preferable, since it is easier to carry, interact and provide psychological support.
“We've also improved other parts of the rocket, such as electronics. The protection unit has been improved because when you integrate more compact modern electronics, you have some space freed up. In addition, we have improved the MANPADS sight, as well as the coordinate system; based on our experience, we have simplified the logistics, and we have maintained compatibility between previous versions of MANPADS and new generations, "- said the representative of MBDA.
Different types
MANPADS manufacturers produce two types of these systems: with missiles with an infrared seeker and with missiles guided by a laser beam. A representative of the MBDA company noted that most of the anti-aircraft missiles with infrared seeker, produced by Russian and American competitors of MBDA, are shoulder-launched systems and, as a result, have less effective on-board electronics and warheads.
“Rockets launched from the shoulder are, of course, smaller in size, their seeker is weaker and less effective. We have directly assessed the systems different countries and demonstrated that the effectiveness of the Mistral missile is significantly better than the effectiveness of the "shoulder" competitors with a smaller warhead, without a remote fuse, "he said.
“As for the beam-guided missiles, this is not at all like fire-and-forget or homing. This guidance is less accurate and the longer the range, the worse the accuracy, since your aiming unit is on the ground and therefore the range directly affects the accuracy. "
“Beam-guided missiles require more training, a heavier and more complex targeting unit, the only advantage is low susceptibility to countermeasures. But with the implementation of the latest improvements for Mistral MANPADS, the benefits of infrared guidance are reduced to zero. "
Mallon objected that infrared missiles with seeker and remote fuse are prohibitively expensive and have their own disadvantages.
“Since you have decided to install a remote fuse and a standard-sized warhead, then prepare for increased aerodynamic drag and reduced flight time. Take the Starstreak MANPADS, you will not find this in it, because our most important requirement in its creation was the destruction of high-speed targets or helicopters with a low approach to the target and a subsequent sharp climb, "he explained.
MANPADS Starstreak in accordance with the contract signed in September 2015, was sold to Thailand
“Such systems as Mistral and Stinger have a remote fuse and a warhead, but they are limited in range, they are quite expensive, since they have a seeker. While we are trying to reduce the cost of our systems as much as possible ”.
“The Starstreak rocket has a very short flight time and this is primarily due to high acceleration, and secondly, due to the small diameter and low aerodynamic resistance of the submunitions themselves. Obviously there are advantages to remote fuses, but a critical requirement for Starstreak was to hit such targets at high speed in as little time as possible, ”continued Mallon.
Air superiority
Western armies for a long time enjoyed air superiority and therefore minimized their needs for inexpensive air defense systems. On the contrary, the MANPADS market was dominated by the armies of developing countries, seeking to obtain increased combat capabilities at the lowest cost.
“In the Western world, for many years, MANPADS were not so important tool due to air superiority. But in other parts of the world they are definitely becoming more dominant, ”Mallon said.
“If you look at the Asia-Pacific region, the military is constantly updating their systems against the backdrop of healthy economic growth. It is obvious that they have now gained access to modern weapons platforms and an increase in defense spending is expected in the countries of this region. "
He continued: “Countries like China are increasing their spending, and countries around it are watching this process with dismay and are beginning to think about increasing their military spending. We therefore see an increase in interest in MANPADS, but this is only the very beginning. "
Forsberg suggested that the demand for MANPADS would grow worldwide, but noted, however, that the recent drop in sales was most likely the result of depressive trends in the global economy.
“Many countries have programs in which they either buy new weapons systems, or upgrade those they already have, or change these systems for something else. But, based on the economic situation, they postponed their investments and programs for the future, maybe for one, or maybe for several years, ”he said.
“That is, as far as I understand, the market, at least in 2016-2017, will feel better. For the most part these will be customers who want to replace their legacy systems. ”
A spokesman for MBDA expressed his point of view, stating that the needs for portable air defense systems are not aimed at MANPADS, since the military wants more integrated solutions. “More and more armies are choosing more comfortable solutions for their air defense systems. Simple MANPADS have such negative traits as fatigue and openness of the shooter, who must stand and wait for hours for his moment. "
“In the cold, in winter, it is very difficult to stand in position for more than two hours, and that's why you need to put a rocket in the system, put the guy in a container or in an air-conditioned car, where he can stay for a long time. I think, for this reason, MANPADS cannot yet occupy the niche due to them. "
Also, the MBDA representative noted that the market for MANPADS is not growing in real terms. It's just that the systems of the previous generation are running out of life and as a result, new purchases are made only because the armies are replacing existing systems with what is currently available on the market.
“But we see growth in Eastern Europe where armies are switching to western MANPADS as part of the process of moving away from Russian weapons. Among these countries, one can mention Hungary and Estonia and some others. This is proof that these countries are turning to the West to obtain their weapons and, in particular, MANPADS, ”he said.
Upgrade potential
With regard to future upgrades to the RBS 70 NG complex, Forsberg said that Saab is always striving to improve its systems and is working to integrate this system with vehicles and ships.
“Of course, we have a friend or foe interrogator for this system both in the MANPADS configuration and for the complex installed on the vehicle. That is, it can be an integrated sighting system on top of a cross-country vehicle, ”he said.
“We are considering rockets weighing more than 100 kg, I think they are not that heavy. We also offer our customers with a need for mobile complexes, MANPADS on a tripod, which can be used in two ways. For example, you arrived at the intended position, but buildings and trees restrict you there, then you take the tripod and the complex and put it on the ground where you need it, and use the same sight that you used in the car, simply disconnecting it and installing it on the MANPADS. So, you buy a platform integrated with the machine and you get two possibilities in one bottle. "
Mallon explained that Thales is striving to better understand and define the requirements for short-range air defense of different countries, including the UK. She is considering several options for expanding the capabilities of the Starstreak HVM MANPADS, not only missiles, but also the launcher itself.
“The progress of automatic target tracking systems and the like is obvious, so we strive to develop systems of a smaller size. Compared to the previous complexes, this will make it possible to obtain a truly integrated system, ”he continued.
“As for the missile itself, we want to improve the characteristics of the targeting submunitions guidance system. We also want to increase the range of the missile over 8 km and for this range to make it more effective in terms of guidance accuracy. "
MANPADS "Verba" is the Russian latest anti-aircraft missile system, which was developed by specialists of the "Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering" (Kolomna) and put into service in 2014. Its main task is to combat low-flying air targets, including cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles(UAV) enemy. Currently, "Verba" is just beginning to enter the troops, it is known that this complex has already been received by the soldiers of the 98th Airborne Division. Serial production of MANPADS is carried out by the Kovrov plant named after. Degtyarev, it started back in 2012.
In terms of its tactical and technical characteristics (TTX), the Russian MANPADS "Verba" significantly surpasses the existing foreign counterparts, so it can be safely called a new generation anti-aircraft complex. The range of heights and distances at which the "Verba" is capable of operating is quite comparable to the characteristics of more serious army air defense systems. The complex confidently covers the main high-altitude ranges of the army aviation, in addition, the missile homing head is capable of distinguishing real targets from heat traps and confidently hitting them. And this moment is called the main "highlight" of "Willow".
The complex was first demonstrated to the general public at the international exhibition Defexpo India, which took place in 2016. After that, the American edition of Business Insider called "Verba" "the most terrible portable anti-aircraft system in history."
The complex, in addition to the launcher itself and the anti-aircraft missile, also includes a mobile small-sized radar and an automated fire control system (ACS), which is able not only to determine the parameters of targets, but also to give target designation to launchers. It was also developed by the specialists of KB Mashinostroeniya.
India has already become interested in the new Russian complex, and negotiations are currently underway with Algeria, Egypt and a number of other countries. It is known that the "Verba" MANPADS has already been delivered to the armed forces of Armenia. There is information that this complex is now being "tested" in Syria, moreover, information appeared in the media about the successful use of MANPADS against Islamist drones.
History of creation
The emergence of powerful and long-range anti-aircraft missile systems forced the pilots of combat aviation to descend from sky-high heights and seek protection in close proximity to the ground. However, already in the early 60s, the ground forces began to receive portable air defense systems, which very soon became one of the main enemies of the pilots. Mobile, simple, portable anti-aircraft missile systems almost invisible from the air have proven to be very effective weapons. A fighter armed with MANPADS could well destroy a large and expensive fighter or attack aircraft with one missile. For the first time, MANPADS were massively used in the 1969 Arab-Israeli war. These were the Soviet Strela-2 complexes. The effectiveness of their use amazed specialists.
Around the same time, the American Red Eye portable systems were adopted. And in the early 80s, the American army received the famous FIM-92 Stinger MANPADS, which spoiled a lot of blood for our pilots in Afghanistan. At the time of its creation, it was an excellent MANPADS, in many ways superior to foreign counterparts, including Soviet complexes. But if we talk about today, then we must admit that the "Stinger" is already morally outdated. In terms of its main characteristics, it is inferior not only to the newest "Verba", but also to many later modifications of the "Needle".
Portable anti-aircraft systems quickly found their place after the end Cold war, this weapon remains in high demand in our era of hybrid wars and local conflicts.
It should be noted that in the USSR this type of weapon has always been given Special attention, domestic designers managed to achieve significant success in the field of MANPADS development. "Strela-2" was replaced by the more advanced "Strela-3", and at the beginning of the 80s into service Soviet army the "Igla" complex was adopted, which is still in use Russian army... It is believed that about 700 different aircraft were shot down by Soviet and then Russian MANPADS in their entire history. The main center for the development of domestic MANPADS is the Kolomna "Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering", which is rightfully considered the world leader in the creation of these weapons.
MANPADS "Verba", in fact, became a further development of the "Igla-S" complex, which was adopted at the beginning of the 2000s. The first information about "Verba" appeared around 2008, but for obvious reasons it was very vague and fragmentary. True, it was argued that the new MANPADS would be ready by 2009. However, this did not happen, the deadlines for the commissioning of the complex were constantly postponed. Only in 2011, military trials began, which lasted several years. The Verba MANPADS was adopted in 2014. The first units of the Airborne Forces began to receive it.
You can shoot from the "Willow" not only from the shoulder, but also install this complex on warships, helicopters or various ground platforms. The Russian military believes that the new complex will allow them not only to more effectively resist the already familiar threats - enemy aircraft and helicopters - but also successfully fight against enemy cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles. Last year, a number of domestic media reported about the destruction of an unmanned aerial vehicle near the Syrian capital with the help of Verba MANPADS. With his help, the rebels adjusted artillery fire. True, the information about this incident has not been officially confirmed.
Description of "Willow"
Externally, the Verba MANPADS is not too different from its famous predecessors - the Igla and Strela anti-aircraft systems. However, in reality, these are weapons with completely different characteristics and capabilities. The new complex is capable of hitting targets at altitudes up to 4.5 km and at a distance of up to 6 km, both on a head-on and on a catch-up course. These are the most important characteristics for any MANPADS, and in terms of them the Verba surpasses the French Mistral, the American Stinger, and even the more modern British Starstrick. The designers managed to achieve an increase in the range and altitude of hitting targets due to the use of more efficient rocket fuel.
The Russian complex has one more advantage - it is the lower limit of the affected area, which is only 10 meters. For comparison, the Stinger can capture targets flying at an altitude of at least 180 meters.
The portable anti-aircraft complex "Verba" (index 9K333) includes the following elements:
- launcher 9P521;
- anti-aircraft guided missile;
- surveillance radar 1L122, which is capable of detecting targets at a distance of 40 to 80 km;
- recognition system "friend or foe";
- fire control system;
- mobile CP 9V861;
- mounting kit 9С933-1;
- 9S935 automation kit;
- means intended for the training and education of personnel.
The most important part of any MANPADS is an anti-aircraft missile. The combat capabilities of the complex largely depend on its characteristics. The 9M336 rocket is equipped with a homing head that operates in three different ranges at once, including ultraviolet. She also received a new instrument compartment. Thanks to such a three-band design, the missile homing head is able to distinguish real air targets from heat traps - the usual means of self-defense of modern combat aircraft and helicopters from MANPADS. Three missile sensors constantly supplement each other's data, which makes attempts to mislead it and "slip" a false target instead of a combat one practically futile.
In addition, it should be noted the highest sensitivity of the missile seeker, in comparison with existing counterparts, it has increased eight times. Thanks to this, the likelihood of MANPADS hitting so-called low-emitting targets - drones and cruise missiles, has significantly increased, as well as the effectiveness of the use of MANPADS at long distances.
It can also be added that the creators of the complex took care of the proper level of protection of the missile's seeker from laser jamming systems, which are still being adopted by the leading military powers. That is, in this case, the creators of "Verba" worked in advance.
It should be noted that the use of several photodetectors for different spectral ranges is not some kind of special "know-how", a similar principle is used on most GOS modern portable anti-aircraft systems. But only "Verba" has three independent channels for receiving information at once.
According to the developers, the 9M336 rocket is completely digital, it is insensitive to aggressive environments and is completely sealed.
The weight of the missile warhead is 1.5 kg. It is equipped with a proximity fuse, which initiates detonation at a certain distance from the object. Such a scheme is considered to be more effective, and it does not require a direct hit of the missile into the object.
Another advantage of the "Verba" MANPADS in comparison with competitors is the presence of a radar station and a fire control system in the complex. Untimely target detection is one of the main disadvantages of portable anti-aircraft systems. As a rule, a fighter begins to prepare to fire only after visual detection of an enemy aircraft or helicopter. To make life even more difficult for air defense calculations, pilots usually use low or super-low altitudes.
The radar, which is part of the Verba complex, can detect enemy aircraft at distances of up to 80 km, and the fire control system through the GLONASS system determines the exact location of the crews and warns those of them who are most effectively able to hit the target. Soldiers receive a sound signal, as well as information about the main characteristics of approaching objects.
MANPADS "Verba" is part of the tactical air defense complex "Barnaul-T", therefore, information on the targets of the anti-aircraft gunners' calculations can also be received from the detection systems of a higher level.
The total weight of the launcher with the rocket and power supplies is 17.25 kg. "Verba" is equipped with a "Mowgli-2" night sight, which makes it possible to use it at any time of the day.
Another advantage of the new complex is its ease of maintenance. Unlike MANPADS of previous generations, the GOS missiles do not need regular cooling with liquid nitrogen. This makes it possible to significantly reduce the cost of its operation.
As mentioned above, the Verba MANPADS can be used not only for shoulder firing. "Needles" are part of the shipboard installations of the "Gibka" air defense system, and are also used on combat helicopters in the "Strelets" complexes. They plan to use Verba in the same way.
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