Iskander M missile system characteristics firing range. Why is Iskander dangerous?
About a year ago, the leadership of the Russian Ministry of Defense spoke about the first cases of combat use of the 9K720 Iskander operational-tactical missile systems as part of the operation in Syria. A few days ago, new reports appeared about similar operation of missile systems. It was noted that during real combat launches, the missile systems showed high performance and coped with the assigned tasks. Thus, the Iskander OTRK was able to confirm its capabilities in a real low-intensity conflict.
However, the new type of operational-tactical missile systems were created not only for local armed conflicts, but also for full-scale wars. In addition, as the events of recent years show, Iskanders are proving to be an effective military-political tool, capable of influencing the situation with their mere presence. In this regard, understandable questions arise: what exactly makes the Iskander family of tactical missile systems so effective in various fields and why are such complexes the most important element of the Russian armed forces?
Self-propelled launcher OTKR "Iskander" at the exercises "Center-2015"
Rocket carriers
It is obvious that the combat qualities of any OTRK are primarily determined by the tactical and technical characteristics of its individual components. Indeed, a significant contribution to the capabilities of the Iskander complex is made by the characteristics of various vehicles from its composition. All the main assets of this complex are made on self-propelled chassis and have high mobility, which allows them to reach the specified positions in a timely manner and prepare to launch missiles.
The OTRK 9K720 includes six vehicles for various purposes, not counting training equipment, etc. arsenal equipment. A standard missile brigade operates a total of more than 50 vehicles of various types. The basis of the complex is the 9P78-1 self-propelled launcher. Its operation is provided by the 9T250 transport-loading vehicle, the 9S552 command and control vehicle, as well as an information preparation point, a life support vehicle and a regulations and maintenance vehicle.
The main vehicles of the complex are built on the four-axle chassis MZKT-7930 “Astrologer”; other means are mounted on KamAZ vehicles. Using such a chassis, the components of the Iskander OTRK are capable of moving along highways at speeds of at least 70 km/h. It also allows movement on a dirt road at a speed of 40 km/h or over rough terrain overcoming various obstacles. Water barriers are crossed by fords or bridges. The launcher's power reserve is 1000 km.
Means of the Iskander complex. In the foreground is a 9S552 command and staff vehicle.
The 9P78-1 combat vehicle and other elements of the complex are capable of reaching a given position for deployment and launch in a minimum amount of time. According to available data, the missile can be launched 4-5 minutes after arriving at the position. A significant part of the operations to prepare for a rocket launch is carried out automatically, but human participation is not completely excluded. An important feature of the 9K720 OTRK is the presence of two missiles on one launcher. Two more products are located on the transport-loading vehicle and can be loaded onto the launcher. According to standards, reloading one rocket takes 16 minutes.
Ballistic missile
The first surface-to-surface ballistic missile of the 9M723 type was created for the Iskander OTRK. This is a single-stage solid-propellant rocket with an integral warhead and a guidance system based on inertial and satellite navigation. It is also known about the development of several alternative homing heads that identify the target using radar or optical systems. The 9M723 missile externally and in its design resembles ammunition from other domestic OTRKs, but has a number of serious technical and operational differences.
First of all, it is necessary to take into account that the 9M723 product is the so-called. quasi-ballistic missile. During flight, it is capable of not only moving along a given ballistic trajectory, but also maneuvering. Onboard control systems allow you to perform some maneuvers in all parts of the trajectory, from the moment of launch to the fall on the target. Intensive maneuvering on the way to the target is one of the main ways to protect a missile from enemy air or missile defense.
"Iskander" on the way to the firing position
Maneuvers with significant overloads in the active section make the missile’s trajectory unpredictable, which makes it difficult to intercept it with modern air defense and missile defense systems. On the ballistic part of the trajectory, interception is complicated by two factors. First of all, at this stage the missile rises to a height of about 50 km and goes beyond the area of responsibility of air defense systems. In addition, the unpredictability of the trajectory associated with maneuvering, in turn, excludes the effective operation of modern missile defense systems.
Some sources mention that the 9M723 missile carries anti-missile defense capabilities similar to those found on intercontinental ballistic missiles. The product is capable of dropping false targets that interfere with enemy radars. The presence of its own on-board electronic warfare systems is also mentioned.
On the downward portion of the trajectory, a quasi-ballistic missile is capable of falling on a target almost vertically at a speed of more than 2 km/s, while simultaneously performing maneuvers with overloads of over 20 units. High speed, maneuvering and correct combat course sharply reduce the likelihood of successful detection, tracking and interception of a missile by modern air defense and missile defense systems created to combat “conventional” ballistic targets.
The process of reloading missiles from a transport-loading vehicle to a self-propelled launcher
9M723 products can be equipped with different warheads designed to destroy various enemy targets. Point targets, including protected or buried ones, should be attacked with high-explosive and concrete-piercing monoblock warheads. To attack area targets, there are several variants of a cluster warhead, differing from each other in the types of combat elements. The cassette can accommodate high-explosive, cumulative, volume-detonating and self-aiming anti-tank submunitions. There is also a special warhead in the form of a monoblock with a power of 50 kt.
The 9M723 quasi-ballistic missile is capable of delivering a warhead to a range of up to 280 km. Its improved version 9M723-1, included in the Iskander-M OTRK, according to various sources, has a range of 400 or 480 km. Thus, the 9M720 ballistic missile systems comply with the requirements of the still valid Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. The probable circular deflection of missiles, according to various sources, does not exceed 10-20 m.
Cruise missile
In the course of further development of the basic Iskander OTRK, the Iskander-K system was created. Its main difference is the rocket used. A ground-based cruise missile was developed specifically for this modification of the complex. As before, the self-propelled launcher carries two missiles and is capable of firing them almost immediately after arriving at a specified position.
Complex operator at work
The basis of the Iskander-K complex is the 9K728 cruise missile, also known as the R-500. As follows from the available data, this product was created without taking into account developments in other Iskander ammunition, and it is based on the experience of completely different projects. According to various versions, the 9K728 missile could be built on the basis of the S-10 Granat missile, products of the Caliber family, or even on the basis of the Kh-101 air-launched missile. Which of these versions is more true is not known for certain. Apparently, there is some commonality with modern cruise missiles of the Caliber complex, but the real degree of unification is not disclosed.
The R-500 product is a subsonic cruise missile with a turbojet propulsion engine. The missile is equipped with an inertial guidance system with the possibility of correction using satellite navigation signals. The autopilot is capable of guiding the missile towards the target along an optimal trajectory, ensuring maximum stealth and reducing the likelihood of successful operation of enemy air defenses. However, there is not too much data on this matter.
According to available information, the 9K728 missile is capable of low-altitude flight following the terrain. It is also possible to use a ballistic trajectory, which, during the operation of the starting engine, provides access to a greater altitude. Then the flight and approach to the target is carried out according to the optimal profile. In particular, it is possible to approach the target at low altitude, sharply reducing the permissible reaction time of air defense and missile defense.
"Iskander-K" in combat position
Whether the R-500 missile has any means of breaking through enemy defenses other than the correct flight profile is unknown. It can be noted that the characteristic architecture of this product does not allow it to carry a large supply of decoys. It is also not entirely clear whether there could be a jamming station on board the rocket.
The Iskander cruise missile has a flight range of up to 500 km - this parameter is limited by the requirements of the INF Treaty. However, foreign experts and politicians are not inclined to trust official Russian data. They express doubts on which the real accusations are based. According to various estimates, the actual flight range of the 9K728 / R-500 product is significantly higher than the declared one. The wildest assumptions bring this parameter to 2000-2500 km. The consequence of this is accusations of violation of the INF Treaty, since this agreement prohibits the development and production of ground-based missiles with a range of more than 500 and less than 5,500 km.
However, the 9K728 missile of the Iskander-K operational-tactical complex is not the most popular reason for criticism. In this context, US politicians are showing much greater interest in the Russian 9K729 missile, which allegedly also does not comply with the terms of the INF Treaty.
Launch of the 9M723 quasi-ballistic missile
Advantages and Threats
As part of the project with the Iskander code, domestic designers created a unique operational-tactical missile system, or rather, a whole family of such systems. The entire line of complexes is based on the same ground-based assets, including a self-propelled launcher and a set of auxiliary vehicles. The unified combat vehicle is capable of using several types of ballistic and cruise missiles, differing in their purpose and capabilities.
Last year, the leadership of the Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau, which developed the OTRK 9K720, revealed interesting information about the Iskander-M project. It turned out that to date, as many as seven missiles of different types and purposes have been developed for this system. Perhaps we were talking about already known products and their modifications, but even in this case, the announced data looks extremely interesting. They directly indicate the potential and combat qualities of the OTRK, as well as its ability to influence the military-political situation.
The Russian army is armed with a universal missile system capable of attacking and destroying various enemy targets at operational depth using missiles and warheads of a number of types. In fact, we are talking about a universal system with the maximum possible and acceptable characteristics. For example, the firing range of cruise and ballistic missiles is limited primarily by international agreements.
Launch of the R-500/9K728 cruise missile
Along with the maximum possible firing range, the Iskander complex is distinguished by its extreme difficulty in intercepting incoming missiles. When developing ballistic and cruise missiles, both known and new ideas were used, which had a positive effect on their ability to break through enemy air defenses and missile defenses. Breakthrough means and methods were created taking into account the features of modern missile and air defense systems, and therefore Iskander is one step ahead.
A mobile system with a firing range of up to 500 km and the ability to break through modern defenses naturally turns out to be a convenient military and political tool. With its help, in a real conflict, you can hit various enemy targets, leaving him almost no chance to repel the blow. In peacetime or in a period of threat, the Iskander family of tactical missile systems can be a convenient means of projecting power or even a threat designed to transparently hint at the views and opinions of the state.
Iskander complexes have been deployed in recent years in a number of ground forces units based in different regions. The total number of complexes in the troops has long exceeded one hundred and, most likely, will increase. The highly effective military and political weapon has been mastered by the troops and is capable of solving the tasks assigned to it.
Launching the 9K728 product from a camouflaged position
Problems of the future
Currently, the possible rupture of the INF Treaty is being actively discussed. The American side cites violations by Russia as the reason for this. In search of accusations, foreign experts recall old estimates about the flight range of the 9K728 cruise missile, which is supposedly capable of flying further than the permissible 500 km.
In the event of a breach of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, Russia will have to take appropriate measures. One of the consequences of the termination of this agreement may be the emergence of new types of American missiles in different European countries. In this case, the answer to them could be the Iskander tactical missile systems located in the western regions of Russia. Their task will be to strike at the launch positions of a potential enemy - both retaliatory and, possibly, preemptive.
There are fears abroad that the 9K728 cruise missile may be based on one of the existing sea- or air-launched products, and for this reason have a range beyond the limitations. There is an interesting logical problem with this. If the accusations against the 9K728 missile are not groundless, and it really violates the Treaty, then as a result of the rupture of the latter, Russia “appears” with a new one, capable of delivering strikes at long ranges. And all this will happen before NATO can take retaliatory measures. However, for this it is necessary that the Iskander-K complex really does not comply with current restrictions.
One way or another, already now the operational-tactical missile systems of the 9K720 Iskander family represent a serious military and political argument that gives our country certain advantages in the international arena. It is obvious that the further development of this line of complexes will make it possible to maintain the desired capabilities, and with a certain development of events, to increase them. At the same time, the complex is unlikely to lose its potential even if the situation changes and existing international agreements are abandoned. Iskander will continue to be dangerous for a potential enemy, and therefore extremely useful for our country.
Based on materials from sites:
http://rbase.new-factoria.ru/
https://defendingrussia.ru/
https://globalsecurity.org/
http://fas.org/
http://ria.ru/
http://tass.ru/
http://mil.ru/
http://militaryrussia.ru/blog/topic-816.html
http://military.tomsk.ru/blog/topic-304.html
The Iskander OTRK is an operational-tactical missile system of increased mobility, capable of changing position in a short period of time and launching two medium- and long-range missiles.
The complex is woven into the Russian system of deterrence against NATO and US forces. The reason for its creation was the deployment by Western countries of missile defense systems along the borders of the Russian Federation, supposedly to counter the nuclear threat from Iran.
Advantages of OTRK Iskander
According to the technical specifications, the Iskander or 9K720 is equipped with missiles capable of hitting an object at a distance of 500 km. This is exactly the distance specified in the Treaty on the Reduction and Elimination of Short- and Medium-Range Missiles - INF Treaty.
Under the terms of the treaty, the United States and the USSR were obliged to get rid of missiles with the range described above. For this reason, the Soviet Union retired the Iskander's predecessor, the Oka.
The USA and the USSR are obliged to get rid of long-range missiles.
However, the Americans themselves violate the terms of the treaty. They are developing new short- and medium-range missile systems. Most of these weapons are carried on missile cruisers and carried by specialized aircraft. For example, Reaper and Predator aircraft.
Even the missile defense elements located on the territory of Romania and Poland have a dual purpose and are capable of launching not only anti-missile missiles, but also Tomahawk missiles equipped with nuclear warheads.
The Iskander analogue of the Patriot air defense system is the main missile defense system of the United States and a number of NATO countries It was this reason that provoked the development and development of the Iskander air defense system - a new generation weapon. According to NATO classification, this weapon is designated SS-26 Stone and is considered the most dangerous product of the Russian Armed Forces. The 9K720 division is comparable in firepower to the US aviation group.
According to experts, the combined strike of the complexes is capable of penetrating the existing missile defense and air defense systems in Europe, delivering a crushing blow to strategic points and “breaking” the defenses for subsequent cruise missile attacks.
A little history
Iskander is a relatively new missile system and does not have any outstanding history.
First steps
The Second World War was going on. The German army crushed one power after another and it seemed that the victorious march of the Third Reich would not be stopped by anything. Poland, Benelux countries, France...
Somewhere the Nazis met fierce resistance. Elsewhere they were greeted as friends.
Gradually the German army acquired the status of invincible.
In June 1941, on the night of the 22nd, without a declaration of war, Reich forces invaded the territory of the USSR. The Soviet units were broken, the fighting moved into the interior of the country. It seemed that nothing would stop the Germans.
However, the Soviet people withstood the brown onslaught. The fascist troops first got stuck near Moscow, and then were completely thrown back from the capital to a considerable distance.
The Battle of Moscow, although it did not become a turning point, showed that the Krauts were not invincible. The turning point came after the Battle of Kursk. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers took part in head-on battles, hundreds of aircraft circled in the sky, and the number of destroyed tanks numbered hundreds.
It was this battle that became the turning point of the entire Second World War - the vector of movement of the armies changed to polar.
Seeing that things were not going well at the fronts, Hitler ordered the intensification of the development of new types of weapons capable of stopping the enemy and preventing him from setting foot on German soil.
"Vau" - the first combat missile of the Germans during the Second World War.
One of the projects that received additional funding was the development of the Fau projectile. In fact, it was the first combat missile.
With their help it was planned to destroy strategic objects and communications. The V-V was actively tested until 1944, when most of the rocket manufacturing plants were destroyed or captured.
Following the results of World War II, some German specialists were transported to the USSR. German scientists actively worked for the benefit of the victorious country.
Contrary to popular belief, scientists and engineers were not starved. On the contrary, people received enhanced rations. Thanks to their work, the development of jet aircraft was accelerated. Including various types of missiles.
It was with German scientists that domestic rocket science began.
Using their developments, Soviet scientists created a base on the basis of which flights into space and the emergence of means of delivering nuclear weapons subsequently became possible.
A little later, but not yet Iskander
The development of diverse missile systems became most widespread during the reign of Nikita Khrushchev. The Secretary General was very fond of this class of weapons and saw inexhaustible potential in it. Thanks to Khrushchev, the development of ICBMs was accelerated. Many consider this to be the main achievement of the leader of the USSR.
It was at this time that the development of the R-17 rocket began. Compared to its predecessor R-11, the new model had a larger flight radius and carried up to a ton of payload. For example, a high-explosive fragmentation charge of increased power or a nuclear warhead of several kilotons.
The Iskander flight range reached 240 km. It became possible to launch from a mobile chassis.
reached the flight range of the first Iskander missiles
Another name for the 9P117 complex is “Scud”. It is under this name that the installation is known throughout the world. Adopted in 1962, it was used by the USSR and the Warsaw Pact countries. However, after the development of the new complex, 9P117 began to be exported to the countries of the Middle East. For example, to Egypt and Iraq.
The Middle East has never been known for its calm. Throughout the twentieth century, conflicts between countries regularly occurred there.
The Scud was used by the Egyptians during the Yom Kippur War in 1973. The strikes were carried out on the Israeli Armed Forces.
In 1991, during the Gulf War, Iraq carried out attacks on Israeli territory. Even the Patriot installations purchased from the Americans did not help “God’s chosen people.”
"Oka", almost, "Iskander"
No matter how good the 9K72 complex was, time takes its toll. New technologies are emerging, leaps are being made in the development of electronics, and military requirements are increasing.
For this reason, in the mid-70s of the last century, work began on the creation of a new missile launcher - the Oka OTRK. S. Nepobedimy was appointed general designer. It is worth noting that subsequently it was he who took part in the creation of Iskander.
this summer the first tests of the missile system took place
The complex was first tested in the summer of 1978. The tests took place at the Kapustin Yar training ground.
It is worth noting an interesting fact: this test site was a test site for most Soviet-Russian missiles for many years.
In total, during the tests, the Oka made about 30 launches. The complex was adopted by the USSR Armed Forces in 1980.
OTRK "Oka": Victim of the RMSD agreement The rocket used by the complex could reach speeds of up to 5M. Flight range - 500 km. The characteristics made it possible to effectively overcome enemy defenses and hit command posts, warehouses and other infrastructure. It was possible to use a nuclear charge with a yield of 5 kilotons as a warhead.
In 1987, Gorbachev signed an agreement to limit the use of medium-short-range missiles. The INF Treaty was also signed by the American side. As a result, most of the Oka OTRK was written off and destroyed. True, the complex was in service until 2003. In limited quantities.
Until 2003, the Oka OTRK was in service with Russia.
By the way, the treaty restrictions applied only to missiles with a flight range of less than 500 km and more than 5500 km. It was on the basis of the new parameters that the development of the next project began.
Development of Iskander
To say that Iskander was created in extremely simple and pleasant conditions means to sin against the truth as much as possible.
First of all, it’s worth starting with the fact that the idea to create a new Iskander-M missile system, the characteristics of which had no analogues in the world, was proposed by S. Nepobedimy. The designer took into account all the restrictions caused by the INF Treaty.
The new installation was planned to use modern Iskander missiles, the performance characteristics of which made it possible to overcome layered enemy defenses at a range exceeding 500 km. However, the idea encountered opposition from Gorbachev. Frankly speaking, the “first” president of the USSR screwed up a lot of things.
Subsequently, after the collapse of the country, development still started. Chaos and confusion reigned in the country. Markets collapsed and production chains were disrupted. The designers were not paid wages for six months.
But tests and tests of the complex continued. Not thanks to, but in spite of. The main problem was irregular funding. Every missile and system tested had to be thoroughly checked.
this year the first working sample of the updated Iskander complex was demonstrated
As a result of long and difficult work, in 1999, at the MAKS international air show, the first working prototype of the new Iskander complex was demonstrated. The new product impressed all the guests of the event. A new portion of funding was allocated for development.
It is worth mentioning the organizations that took a direct part in the construction of the complex:
- Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering - rocket development;
- Central Design Bureau "Titan" - creation of a launcher and chassis;
- NIIEP - were involved in the design of all OTRK automation.
Subsequently, in 2006, the first Iskanders entered service with the army of the Russian Federation. The installations were included in the so-called “access prohibited zone” perimeter.
In addition to the 9K720, the defense includes the S-400 air defense system (B, in the future S-500) and elements of the Bastion anti-ship missile system. The essence of the project is to immediately defeat any unfriendly object that illegally crosses the perimeter border.
Modification “E” has been supplied to Armenia since 2016 In service
Iskander is in service with two countries in the world: Russia and Armenia. According to data from open sources, the Russian Federation uses 72 Iskander-M complexes and an unspecified number of Iskander-K modifications. How many OTKR units were transferred to Armenia is unknown. The only information available is the delivery date - 2016.
Tactical and technical characteristics of the Iskander OTRK
The actual parameters of the OTRK are unknown. The most obvious thing that can be said is that the complex carries 2 missiles with a range of hitting targets of 50 - 500 km. The launch is carried out within a few minutes after the combat signal. After firing, the launcher moves away from the missile launch site in order to camouflage and evade a retaliatory strike.
Western weapons experts claim that the 9K720 is capable of hitting targets at a distance of over 5,500 km. The main argument in favor of these discussions was the appearance of the missiles of the complex; the Iskander-M missile is similar to the Caliber. Whether this is true or fiction is unknown.
Also, experts from NATO countries claim that the Russian OTRK is capable of performing its task more efficiently than its American counterpart. US developments in this category (LRPF missiles) are not capable of hitting a target at a distance of over 500 km.
Missile destroyer "Donald Cook" with which "Iskander" is compared The performance characteristics of the Iskander are also often compared with American missile destroyers of the Donald Cook type. Moreover, many military analysts are inclined to believe that the Russian complex is more effective.
The Iskander missile, the characteristics of which are kept in the strictest confidence, is causing a wave of indignation and fear in NATO. The main reason is the possibility of rapid recharging. The process takes place thanks to a special tracking machine. The ship has to go to the port for a similar procedure.
Basic performance characteristics
| The missile hits the target with an error, m | 5 – 30 |
| Rocket weight at launch, t | 3,8 |
| Warhead weight, kg | 400 |
| Rocket height, m | 7,2 |
| Radius, cm | 46 |
| Rocket cruising speed, m/s | 2 100 |
| Highest point of the ballistic trajectory, km | Exceeds 100 |
| Maximum engagement range, km | "Iskander-M" - 500, "Iskander-S" - 2500 (From unconfirmed sources) |
| Minimum engagement range, km | 50 |
| Preparation for shot, m | 4 – 16 |
| Time interval before launch of the 2nd rocket, m | 1 |
| How long does the Iskander last? | 10 in field conditions, 3 in combat |
Options
Since the creation of the first samples of Iskander in 2006, a small number of modifications of this installation have been created. In general, they differ in the missiles used to fire the salvo. In addition, the export version lacks some of the functionality available to products for the Russian army.
OTRK "Iskander-M": Modification 2011 List of modifications:
- "Iskander-M"— missile system (characteristics and video below) basic version. It has two Iskander missiles (characteristics are classified) located on the launcher. The chassis has increased cross-country ability and electronic warfare systems. The Iskander-M has much improved performance characteristics. There is a mobile command post. The missiles are capable of penetrating enemy defenses. A number of technologies are used for this: the ability to maneuver at high speeds with an overload of up to 30 g, the release of false elements, a special coating absorbs radio signals, and small dimensions. The missile approaches the target at an angle of 90 degrees;
- "Iskander-E"— The letter “E” means that the version is intended for export. It is equipped with a missile with a flight range of 280 km and a warhead weight of 480 kg. In fact, it is a significantly simplified version of the previous modification. The only country that purchased a batch of complexes is Armenia. If there are others, then the information is strictly classified;
- "Iskander-K"- the version on which cruise missiles with intelligent guidance are installed. The warhead has a mass of 480 kg. The flight speed is 2100 m/s. The flight altitude is 7 meters (When approaching the target), 7 km - while traveling to the specified object. At low altitudes, the rocket is able to avoid obstacles and follow changes in terrain. Flight range - 500 km. There is an option with the installation of R-500 (Range - 2 thousand km).
Rocket launch from Iskander 9K720 Most likely, the Iskander-M operational-tactical missile system is undergoing further modification in closed design bureaus. The judgment is based on common sense. After all, weapons are one of the most obsolete achievements of mankind.
Composition of the complex
In addition to the launcher itself, the group includes 5 more types of machines. Each performs its own functions. In total, each brigade includes 51 vehicles.
Composition of the Iskander OTRK division 9P78-1
These are self-propelled launchers. In total, the brigade includes 12 units. Their main purpose is to transport and store missiles. Fully loaded weight is 42 tons. The weight of the transported cargo is 19 tons.
The unit is mounted on the basis of the MEKT-7930 tractor. The chassis has an 8 x 8 wheel arrangement and is capable of speeds of up to 70 km/h. Range – 1000 km. All this is necessary for rapid transfer at any time of the day and over any distance. The crew consists of 3 people.
Iskander launcher chassis 9S552
A command and staff vehicle designed to control all elements of the OTRK. Installed on the KAMAZ 43101 chassis. There is an Aqueduct radio station. Full-time crew – 4 people. The division is equipped with 11 such vehicles. The radio station is capable of receiving and transmitting a signal over a distance of 250 km (in the unfolded state). On the march - 50 km. Battery life 2 days.
MRTO
Machine for carrying out routine and repair work. The regular crew is 2 people. Used to check on-board equipment and perform routine repairs. But the main task is to test the missile electronics. In automatic mode, the procedure takes 18 minutes. The vehicle is based on a KamAZ chassis. Operating weight - 13 tons.
9С920
A machine designed to prepare flight information for missiles. Based on the KamAZ chassis. Crew - 2 people. In fact, this is a server where all information from various target designation sources flows: satellites, aircraft, drones. After processing, the information is transmitted to the launcher, after which the rocket is launched.
Life support machine
The main purpose of the vehicle is to provide personnel with sleeping places, comfortable meals and other living conditions. There are sleeping places, lockers for storing things, lockers. There is a 300 liter tank, a water heating system, and special pumps. The vehicle is based on KamAZ. The division includes 14 units.
KAO and UTS
A special vehicle designed for rapid reloading of launchers. The procedure takes on average 20 minutes. The second car is a simulator for the crew. It simulates combat situations.
It is also worth noting that an impressive group consisting of infantry formations and armored vehicles (Tanks, infantry fighting vehicles) is assigned to protect the Iskander division and accompanying support vehicles. In addition, the division, being in a stationary position, is camouflaged with standard means: a camouflage network, electronic warfare systems, and protection from thermal imaging detection.
Design of OTRK Iskander missiles
Two types of missiles have been developed for the OTRK: quasi-ballistic and cruise. In principle, they differ only in guidance systems and flight trajectories. Otherwise the products are similar.
The missiles are capable of maneuvering at high speeds, while choosing random trajectories of movement and reversal. At the same time, the missiles are controlled throughout the flight, which increases the accuracy of the hit.
Missile warheads are designed to hit various targets. For example, there is a cluster warhead that can split into many parts and hit a large area. There are options for extremely accurate hits, used to neutralize command bunkers or missile defense and air defense elements. In especially sad cases, missiles are equipped with tactical nuclear warheads with a yield of up to several kilotons.
During the flight, missiles are capable of discarding electronic warfare elements, which makes guidance difficult for enemy missile defense systems. An additional factor is the small size of the flying rocket in physical terms.
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Iskander - M |
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Iskander – K (R-500) |
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Iskander - E |
Combat use
If you believe various open sources, the Iskander anti-aircraft missile system was used only three times. Moreover, in one case it was live firing as part of joint exercises with Tajikistan.
The second case is the use of several OTRK installations to launch non-nuclear strikes against ISIS militants (an organization banned in Russia). The launches took place in December 2017. The characteristics of the Iskander-M, declared by the developers, have received combat confirmation.
The most controversial case is the statement that the Iskander missile system, the characteristics of which guarantee the destruction of enemy personnel and equipment, was used during the Georgian-Ossetian conflict in August 2008.
The participation of the OTRK division could not be proven. The Russian military denies these rumors. There is an opinion that the Georgian side mistook the Tochka-U missile launches for 9K720, which were precisely used to disable the enemy’s infrastructure.
The combat use of the Iskander is based in the west of the Russian Federation.
More precisely, in the Kaliningrad region. From the region, the missile system is capable of hitting a whole range of targets on the territory of a potential enemy. These are military airfields and NATO command centers in the Baltic states, missile defense elements in Poland and Romania, strategic infrastructure structures in Denmark and Sweden. Also, 9K720 are located on the territory of the Republic of Belarus.
| 2008 | The Georgian-Ossetian conflict that occurred in August during the Olympics. The use of 9K720 has not been recorded, but the Georgian authorities and a number of Western media claim the opposite. The Tochka-U complex was used to carry out targeted missile strikes |
| 2016 | Exercises in Tajikistan. The missiles hit training targets and tested the operational range of the Iskander-M |
| 2017 | In December, the Iskander-M complex was delivered to Syria (the characteristics of the missiles had to be tested in real combat). Cases of combat use and destruction of defensive structures have been recorded. Probable targets: large formations of terrorist groups, ammunition depots and accumulations of armored vehicles. |
Advantages and disadvantages of the Iskander OTRK
The 9K720 complex is relatively new, and a number of technical parameters are hidden from public view. Therefore, it is very difficult to judge the real advantages and disadvantages of the Iskander-M OTRK, the destruction radius of which remains a mystery for Russia’s opponents.
Most of the information relates to official statements by the Russian military and television programs broadcast on patriotic channels. Which creates the impression of “ideality” of military equipment. And not only Iskander.
Most likely, in a few years (possibly decades), the real capabilities of the complex will be discovered. Judging by open information, the OTRK is capable of hitting targets while passing through high-echelon defenses. And it will be good if we never have to test Iskander-M or Iskander-K on a real enemy. After all, first of all, the 9K720 is a weapon of intimidation.
Composition of the Iskander OTRK.
- Gross weight: 42 t
- Payload: 19 t
- Calculation: 3 people
- Chassis: MZKT-7930
- Chassis: MZKT-7930
- Loading crane
- Calculation: 2 people.
Command and staff vehicle
- Number of communication channels: up to 16h
- Chassis: KAMAZ 43101
- Calculation: 4 people
- Weight: 13.5 tons
- Calculation: 2 people
- Chassis: KamAZ
Information preparation point
- Calculation: 2 people
- Chassis: KAMAZ 43101
Life support machine
- Chassis: KAMAZ 43118
- Warhead weight: 480 kg
- Length 7.3 m
- Diameter 920 mm
Nuclear weapons.
November 22, 2019
November 18, 2019
September 19, 2019
August 31, 2019
The Iskander operational-tactical missile system is designed to destroy area and small-sized targets deep in the operational location of enemy troops with combat units used in conventional equipment; destruction of enemy air defense and missile defense systems, as well as the most important objects covered by them, at ranges of up to 500 km. The complex was developed by NPO Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau. Tactical use of the OTRK can include a simultaneous strike with an Iskander-M quasi-ballistic missile and an Iskander-K cruise missile to destroy highly protected missile defense and air defense targets along different trajectories, which complicates protection from defeat. Has a low barrier to non-nuclear use. Created using modern design and scientific and technical achievements in the field of OTRK. A special feature of the installation is the use of two missiles.
Main characteristics of the Iskander OTRK
Composition of the Iskander OTRK.
The complex includes six types of machines:
Self-propelled launcher- designed for storing, transporting, preparing and launching two missiles at a target.
- Gross weight: 42 t
- Payload: 19 t
- Highway speed: 70 km/h
- Speed of movement on a dirt road: 40 km/h
- Fuel range: 1000 km
- Calculation: 3 people
- Chassis: MZKT-7930
Transport-charging machine- designed to transport two additional missiles.
- Chassis: MZKT-7930
- Loading crane
- Total combat weight: 40 tons
- Calculation: 2 people.
Command and staff vehicle- designed to control the entire Iskander complex.
- Maximum radio range when stationary/on the move: 350/50 km
- Mission calculation time for missiles: up to 10 seconds
- Command transmission time: up to 15 seconds
- Number of communication channels: up to 16h
- Deployment (collapse) time: up to 30 minutes
- Continuous operation time: 48 hours
- Chassis: KAMAZ 43101
- Radio station: R-168-100KA “Aqueduct”
- Calculation: 4 people
Regulation and maintenance machine- designed to check on-board equipment of rockets and instruments, to carry out routine repairs.
- Weight: 13.5 tons
- Deployment time: 20 minutes
- Time of the automated cycle of routine checks of the on-board equipment of the rocket: 18 min
- Calculation: 2 people
- Chassis: KamAZ
Information preparation point- designed to determine the coordinates of the target and prepare flight missions for missiles with their subsequent transfer to the SPU. The PPI is interfaced with reconnaissance assets and can receive tasks and assigned targets from all necessary sources, including from a satellite, aircraft or UAV.
- Calculation: 2 people
- Chassis: KAMAZ 43101
Life support machine- designed for accommodation, rest and eating of combat crews.
- Chassis: KAMAZ 43118
- Rest compartment: 6 carriage-type berths with folding upper beds, 2 lockers, built-in lockers, opening window
- Household supply compartment: 2 lockers with seats, a folding lifting table, a water supply system with a 300-liter tank, a tank for heating water, a pump for pumping water, a drainage system, a sink, a dryer for clothes and shoes
Combat characteristics of the Iskander OTRK.
Circular probable deviation: 10-30 m
- Rocket launch weight: 3800 kg
- Warhead weight: 480 kg
- Length 7.3 m
- Diameter 920 mm
- Rocket speed after the initial part of the trajectory: 2100 m/s
- Maximum overloads during flight - 20-30G
- Maximum trajectory altitude - more than 100 km
- Minimum target range: 50
- Maximum target engagement range: 500 km "Iskander-K"
- Guidance: INS, GLONASS, optical seeker
- Time before launch of the first rocket: 4-16 minutes
- Interval between starts: 1 minute
- Operating temperature range: -50 °C to 50 °C
- Service life: 10 years, including 3 years in field conditions
Types of warheads of the Iskander OTRK.
Iskander can use a very wide range of combat units. The main ones are:
To destroy area targets and entrenched equipment, a cluster fragmentation warhead is used with remote detonation in the air of 54 combat elements to destroy people and equipment in the trenches from above.
- A concrete-piercing warhead is used to destroy bunkers.
- To hit point targets, a high-explosive fragmentation warhead is usually used.
Cluster warheads for hitting area targets.
Iskander can use a wide range of cluster warheads, allowing it to immediately hit a large area target, such as a military base, airfield, air defense/missile defense center.
On average, 1 kg of fragmentation cluster munitions affects about 32 m2. The area of destruction varies depending on the type of cluster munition and can be much lower for cumulative or volumetric detonating munitions, but these munitions can also hit armored vehicles or infantry/vehicles in shelters. The known types of Iskander OTRK cluster munitions are as follows:
Cassette with 54 fragmentation combat elements of non-contact detonation, triggered at a height of about 10 m above the ground surface
Cassette with PTAB-2.5KO cumulative fragmentation warheads, capable of penetrating the roof armor of armored vehicles up to 20 mm thick, as well as inflicting wounds on infantry with fragments
Cassette with self-aiming combat elements using its own radar and IR seeker to destroy clusters of SPBE-D equipment
Volumetric detonating cassette for destroying manpower and equipment among buildings and in shelters
Non-cluster munitions for hitting point targets.
Non-cluster warheads are designed to destroy point fortified objects such as command bunkers, reinforced concrete warehouse buildings, barracks, fuel storage tanks and the like. Anti-bunker ammunition is designed to penetrate reinforced concrete floors up to 1.2 m thick and detonate indoors. High-explosive fragmentation warheads hit lightly armored vehicles with shrapnel at a distance of 70 m, and easily vulnerable equipment, such as dug-in vehicles as part of air defense systems and communications centers, at a distance of 200 m.
Nuclear weapons.
Special (nuclear) warhead with a capacity of up to 50 kilotons.
November 22, 2019 At the Kapustin Yar training ground, a solemn ceremony was held to present a brigade set of the Iskander operational-tactical missile system to the personnel of the missile formation of the Western Military District. The transfer of the kit completed the re-equipment of the existing missile formations of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. The event was attended by the head of combat training - deputy chief of the missile forces and artillery of the Russian Armed Forces, Colonel Yuri Zaritsky, the command of the Western Military District and representatives of defense industry enterprises.
November 18, 2019 During the exercises, crews of the Iskander-M missile systems of the Central Military District practiced delivering group and single strikes against important objects and targets that determine the combat potential of a mock enemy at a distance of up to 200 kilometers. The crews marched to the designated area, where they carried out engineering equipment for the starting positions and took up combat duty. The crews also improved their actions when working on launchers and transport-loading vehicles, and the drivers strengthened their driving skills in various terrain conditions.
September 19, 2019 At the Donguz training ground in the Orenburg region, military personnel of the Central Military District missile unit hit a training target with a missile from the Iskander-M operational-tactical missile system. The launch took place during the strategic command and staff exercises Center-2019. The complex hit a target that imitated a critical target of a mock enemy.
August 31, 2019, as part of a tactical exercise at the Kapustin Yar training ground, military personnel of the VVO missile formation launched a ballistic missile of the Iskander operational-tactical missile system at a target simulating a critical target of a mock enemy. As a result of the missile strike, the training target was destroyed.
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Ground forces have completed rearmament with the Iskander missile system
On November 22, 2019, at the Kapustin Yar training ground, a ceremony was held to present a brigade set of the Iskander operational-tactical missile system to the personnel of the missile formation of the Western Military District. The transfer of the kit completed the re-equipment of the existing missile formations of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. The event was attended by the head of combat training - deputy chief of the missile forces and artillery of the Russian Armed Forces, Colonel Yuri Zaritsky, the command of the Western Military District and representatives of defense industry enterprises. Several dozen launchers, transport-loading and command-staff vehicles, life support equipment, regulations and maintenance were handed over to the personnel of the missile formation. The final stage of rearmament of the missile formation will be a tactical exercise with a combat launch of a missile, after which the entire personnel of the formation will march in a combined manner to the place of permanent deployment.
Iskander-M complexes practiced delivering strikes against a simulated enemy
On November 18, 2019, during the exercise, crews of the Iskander-M missile systems of the Central Military District practiced carrying out group and single strikes against important facilities and targets that determine the combat potential of a mock enemy, located at a distance of up to 200 kilometers. The crews marched to the designated area, where they carried out engineering equipment for the starting positions and took up combat duty. The crews also improved their actions when working on launchers and transport-loading vehicles, and the drivers strengthened their driving skills in various terrain conditions.
At the Center-2019 exercises, the Iskander-M missile was successfully launched
At the Donguz training ground in the Orenburg region on September 19, 2019, military personnel from the missile formation of the Central Military District hit a training target with a missile from the Iskander-M operational-tactical missile system. The launch was carried out as part of the strategic command and staff exercises Center-2019. The complex successfully hit a target that imitated a critical target of a mock enemy. The servicemen also fulfilled the standards for transferring the missile system to a combat position and reloading the missiles. The effectiveness of the attack was assessed using the Orlan-10 unmanned aerial vehicle.
Strategic command and staff exercise of the Russian Armed Forces Center-2019
The strategic command and staff exercise of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation “Center” was held from September 16 to 21, 2019. They are the final stage of a complex of combat training activities. During the exercises, military personnel worked out the issues of using troop groups in solving problems of combating international terrorism and ensuring military security in the Central Asian strategic direction.
An Iskander OTRK missile was launched near Astrakhan
As part of a tactical exercise at the Kapustin Yar training ground in the Astrakhan region on August 31, 2019, military personnel of the missile formation of the Eastern Military District launched a ballistic missile of the Iskander operational-tactical missile system at a target simulating a critical target of a mock enemy. During the exercise, the crews of the complex demonstrated their skills in meeting the standards for transferring the OTRK from a traveling position to a combat position, reloading missiles from transport-loading vehicles to self-propelled launchers, and launching a missile strike at given coordinates. As a result of the missile strike, the training target was destroyed
In world politics there are magic words that make entire governments tremble. For example, the phrase “chemical weapons in Syria” or “nuclear weapons in Iran” evokes a state of extreme military-diplomatic excitement among the political elite of Western countries. However, in terms of the speed of reaction of the progressive public to such phrases, our Iskander has no equal. The mention of the Iskander-M OTRK, especially in the context of its deployment near someone’s borders, inevitably entails a reaction close to hysteria from the media, military and politicians of border countries and their Western overlords. Let's figure out what is the secret of the magical properties of this operational-tactical missile system that so frightens our neighbors.
The problem with the Iskander missile system is that it cannot be caught. Firstly, because during the flight the missile maneuvers with enormous overloads, which are still unattainable for any interceptor missile in service with the countries of the world. Secondly, it flies very low - up to 6 km from the surface at a speed of Mach 4, so it is almost impossible to detect it using standard radar means. Thirdly, it throws out false targets to deceive the enemy’s radar, sets up active radio interference and “jammes” all the emitters by which missile defense systems navigate in space. Those. The Iskander can destroy any object within a radius of 500 km with an accuracy of 2 meters and a probability close to 100%. Theoretically, by launching a missile from Kaliningrad, you can “reach” the government quarter in Berlin, and the destructive force of the strike can be easily increased by “hanging” a nuclear warhead on the missile. No one in the world has such missile weapons. At the same time, Iskander is extremely mobile and secretive - the likelihood of its detection, even by space reconnaissance means, is very low. Within 1 minute, he launched a set of missiles and immediately left the location, turning off all devices.
The rocket is single-stage, has an engine with a single nozzle, is non-ballistic and is controlled throughout the entire flight path using aerodynamic and gas-dynamic rudders. Most of the flight path of a missile made using Stealth technology and having a small dispersion surface passes at an altitude of 50 km, and on the approach phase - 6-20 km (depending on the type of OTRK), which makes its defeat by the enemy a practically impossible task . The “invisibility” effect is achieved through a combination of design features, in particular, treating the rocket with special nanostructured dispersive coatings, dropping protruding parts after launch, etc. The Iskander trajectory is not only non-ballistic, but also difficult to predict. Immediately after launch and immediately upon approaching the target, the missile performs intensive maneuvering. Depending on the trajectory, overloads range from 20 to 30 units. Accordingly, the interceptor missile must withstand an overload of at least 2-3 times higher, which is technologically impossible within the framework of the existing 4th technological order in the world and even the promising fifth.
The Iskander-M is the main version for the Russian army and is significantly more complex than the Iskander-E available for export. Less noticeable, more maneuverable at the start and during the final phase of the flight. In addition, it has not just an inertial guidance system, like the Iskander-E, but a combined one, including radio correction, GPS, GLONASS, laser and optical homing in the final section. Controlled by lattice rudders. The warhead is not separated in principle, because the body serves to create lift at the final section.
In 2012, another complex was final tested - Iskander-K, which is a further development of the M. It launches even more accurate, already cruise missiles, which are equipped with small load-bearing surfaces, like on the R-37. Thanks to this, it became possible to fire along a flat trajectory, like the OKA complex did in its time, only much more accurately and faster. The missile can fly at an altitude of only 6 km (horizontal radars have no chance), it uses a combined seeker and replaceable warheads. Two missiles in a salvo can be equipped with different guidance systems and fire both along a mounted and flat trajectory.
Experts express the opinion that the combined use of two brothers - Iskander-M and Iskander-K - gives a synergistic effect that none of the existing missile defense systems can counteract. One of the missile technology experts, speaking on forums under the nickname “Evil Critic,” described the new product this way: “It is known that both ballistic missiles (BMs) and cruise missiles (CR), as well as their guidance systems, have a number of limitations on the “current state” of the target object... For example, if you bet ONLY on the Iskander-M, for example, with an optical-correlation system for final guidance on the target target, and if you assume that the object will have to be hit at “hour X” with low clouds and intense visual opposition from the enemy, the bet may be lost. The same applies to the final guidance radar system, which is similar in operating principle to that of the Pershing-2 - here the enemy’s intense electronic warfare can confuse the cards. At the same time, low clouds, for example, and intense visual masking of the final object, will be to a certain extent “on the drum” of the CR with an inertial and optical-correlation system that works out navigation corrections throughout the ENTIRE route (similar to the Pendossk ALCM CR).. Here, no amount of masking of the target will help - and here you ONLY need to shoot down the missile, shoot it down on the route or, as a last resort, on the approach to the target.
Finally, let’s imagine a situation where “Iskander-K” and “Iskander-M” “approach” the target (Czech missile defense radar or noble mines with GBI) - AT THE SAME TIME... And each demonstrates “their own proprietary set of gadgets” , - “Iskander-M” - high-intensity maneuvering of a high-flying hypersonic target, “Iskander-K” - an extremely low flight profile (about 6 m) and following the terrain in a practically “autonomous” (i.e., independent of the search for a target onboard sensors) mode... This REALLY is a situation close to 100% probability of hitting the target... So, to combat Euro-missile defense, the COMBINATION of "Iskander-M" + "Iskander-K" is really optimal. The trick is to use these products simultaneously, “in one hit.”
The German newspaper Bild, citing its sources, reported that Russia has deployed Iskander missiles in the Kaliningrad region near the border with Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. This message was followed by the reaction of the US authorities, who immediately, through all channels of interaction, called on Russia not to destabilize the situation by deploying Iskander missiles in the west. "We would not want them to take steps that would destabilize the region," US State Department spokeswoman Marie Harf said. Translated from diplomatic to human, it sounds something like this: “The deployment of Iskander missiles will upset the entire balance of power in Europe, and not in our direction. Anything but Iskander!” Concerns were also expressed in Poland and Latvia. Lithuanian Defense Minister Juozas Olakas called this alarming news, and Lithuanian Presidential Adviser Dali Grybauskaite said that Russia's actions do not correspond to declarations of desire for closer cooperation with the European Union and NATO. Even China became nervous when it learned that the missile system would be located near its border.
Let us note that with the delivery of Iskander missiles to Armenia, the hands of Azerbaijan, which had recently been trying to flex its military muscles in the region, were tied - the aggressive rhetoric towards Yerevan stopped. In 2014, Armenia will complete the re-equipment of its missile units with ultra-precise and long-range missile systems. Armenian Defense Minister Seyran Ohanyan stated this at a press conference in Yerevan on January 24, answering a question from journalists about whether reports about Yerevan’s acquisition of Russian modern operational-tactical missile systems (OTRK) Iskander-M are true. Please note that it is not the export Iskander-E with a range of 280 km and one missile in the launcher, which has been reduced in capabilities, but a full-fledged "M", firing at a distance of up to 500 km and having 2 missiles at once (by the way, so far the only OTRK in the world capable launch 2 missiles from one launcher at once). Apparently, an exception was made for our Armenian friends due to the tense geopolitical situation throughout the CIS.
Iskander can deliver cluster (with 54 combat elements), penetrating, high-explosive fragmentation, and nuclear warheads to the target. This allows you to hit small-sized and area targets, including enemy fire weapons, air defense and missile defense systems, aircraft at airfields, command posts, etc. The RK includes a missile, a self-propelled launcher, a transport-loading and command-staff vehicle, a mobile information preparation station, mobile technical and household support units, as well as sets of arsenal and training equipment.
The history of the creation of this OTRK began in the early 80s. The use of conventional (non-nuclear) warheads while maintaining the effectiveness of the weapon forced developers to look for new ways to build a missile control system (CS). The accuracy of the inertial control system for solving this problem is insufficient; it should have been increased
approximately by an order of magnitude. In the 80s Attempts have already been made in our country to solve this problem. Optical homing equipment for the Scud was created (it was even possible to conduct field tests and hand over the missile for trial operation among the troops). A nuclear-free warhead with guidance using a correlation-type radar seeker was developed for the Volga complex. The modernized "Oka" and "Tochka" had not only an inertial control system, but also an optical correlation-extreme guidance system, which was also not only tested, but also underwent trial operation by the troops. During the years of inactivity of our military-industrial complex, the United States achieved great success in this direction: on the American Pershing-2 missile, which was destroyed under the INF Treaty, a radar seeker was installed that identified the terrain in the target area; optical homing systems are used in modern versions of the Tomahawk and CALCM cruise missiles. Their effectiveness was clearly demonstrated in Iraq and Yugoslavia.
The task of creating similar equipment for the Iskander was completed by the Central Research Institute of Automation and Hydraulics (TsNIIAG), a leading developer of guidance and control systems for domestic tactical and operational-tactical missiles, which has a 25-year track record in the development of homing heads. The main way to solve this problem was to combine an inertial system with optical guidance over the terrain surrounding the target. Moreover, the homing head created at TsNIIAG can be used both as part of the Iskander and on ballistic and cruise missiles of various classes and types (including intercontinental ones). This seeker has already passed flight tests and has shown accuracy better than the Americans achieved with their Tomahawks.
The principle of operation of homing systems, which have the scientific name of correlation-extreme, is that optical equipment forms an image of the terrain in the target area, which is compared in the on-board computer with a reference one, after which corrective signals are issued to the missile controls.
The optical seeker is universal and makes only one requirement for the missile's inertial control system: to bring the latter to the point at which the optics begin to see the target. Existing active electronic warfare systems, which very effectively counteract radar homing systems, are powerless against such a head. The high sensitivity of the seeker allows it to operate even on a moonless night, which distinguishes the new system from existing analogues. In addition, optical systems do not require signals from space radio navigation systems, such as the American NAVSTAR, which in crisis situations can be turned off by its owners or disabled by radio interference. By the way, many potential customers of Iskander-E put forward demands for independence from satellite navigation. At the same time, the integration of inertial control with satellite navigation equipment and an optical seeker makes it possible to create a missile that can hit a given target in almost any imaginable conditions.
Information about the target is transmitted from a satellite, reconnaissance aircraft or unmanned aerial vehicle to the information preparation point (IPP). It calculates the flight mission for the rocket, which is then transmitted via radio channels to the command and staff vehicles (CSVs) of the division and battery commanders, and from there to the launchers. Commands to launch missiles can be generated either in the command post or from the control centers of senior artillery commanders. The PPI and KShM equipment is built on local networks of Russian computers, and the functionality of the control set depends only on the software and can be easily upgraded to control various fire weapons.
On October 11, 2011, it was announced that the first stage of testing of the updated Iskander-M missile system with new combat equipment was completed - with a new electronic warfare system, which provides cover for the missile during the final flight phase. This system includes means of passive and active jamming of enemy air and missile defense surveillance and firing radars through noise and the release of false targets. Since 2013, new missiles began to be supplied to the Russian army.
The 2012 CIA analytical review “On strategic risks and the global military-political situation in the world” contains a very revealing definition: “The Iskander operational-tactical missile system is a weapon capable of influencing the military-political situation in regions of the world if located in Their states do not have an extended territory. Therefore, the issues of deployment of Iskander complexes, as well as their export deliveries, are the subject of political consultations between the countries.”
The complex is designed to engage conventionally equipped combat units against small-sized and area targets deep in the operational formation of enemy troops. It is assumed that it can be a means of delivering tactical nuclear weapons.
Most Likely Targets:
— fire weapons (missile systems, multiple launch rocket systems, long-range artillery);
— missile defense and air defense systems;
— airplanes and helicopters at airfields;
— command posts and communication centers;
— the most important civil infrastructure facilities.
The main features of the Iskander OTRK are:
— high-precision effective destruction of various types of targets;
- the ability to covertly carry out combat duty, prepare for combat use and launch missile strikes;
— automatic calculation and input of flight missions for missiles when placing them on the launcher;
— high probability of completing a combat mission in the face of active enemy opposition;
— high operational reliability of the rocket and its reliability during preparation for launch and in flight;
— high tactical maneuverability due to the placement of combat vehicles on off-road all-wheel drive chassis;
— high strategic mobility, which is ensured by the ability to transport combat vehicles by all types of transport, including aviation;
— high degree of automation of the process of combat control of missile units;
— fast processing and timely delivery of intelligence information to the necessary management levels;
- long service life and ease of use.
Combat characteristics:
— circular probable deviation: 1...30 m;
— rocket launch weight 3,800 kg;
— length 7.2 m;
— diameter 920 mm;
— warhead weight 480 kg;
— rocket speed after the initial part of the trajectory is 2100 m/s;
— the minimum target engagement range is 50 km;
— maximum range of hitting a target:
500 km Iskander-K
280 km Iskander-E
— time before the launch of the first rocket is 4...16 minutes;
— interval between starts: 1 minute
— service life: 10 years, including 3 years in field conditions.
The main elements that make up the Iskander OTRK are:
- rocket,
- self-propelled launcher,
— transport-charging machine,
— routine maintenance machine,
— command and staff vehicle,
— information preparation point,
— a set of arsenal equipment,
— educational and training facilities.
Self-propelled launcher(SPU) - designed for storing, transporting, preparing and launching two missiles at a target (in the export version, 1 missile). The SPU can be implemented on the basis of a special wheeled chassis MZKT-7930 produced by the Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant. Gross weight 42 tons, payload 19 tons, highway/dirt road speed 70/40 km/h, fuel range 1000 km. Calculation 3 people.
Transport-charging machine(TZM) - designed to transport two additional missiles. The TZM is implemented on the MZKT-7930 chassis and is equipped with a loading crane. Total combat weight 40 tons. Crew 2 people.
Command and staff vehicle(KShM) - designed to control the entire Iskander complex. Implemented on the KamAZ-43101 wheeled chassis. Calculation 4 people. KShM CHARACTERISTICS:
— maximum radio communication range when stationary/on the move: 350/50 km
— task calculation time for missiles: up to 10 s
— command transmission time: up to 15 s
— number of communication channels: up to 16
— deployment (collapse) time: up to 30 minutes
— continuous operation time: 48 hours
Regulation and maintenance machine(MRTO) - designed to check on-board equipment of rockets and instruments, to carry out routine repairs. Implemented on a KamAZ wheeled chassis. Weight is 13.5 tons, deployment time does not exceed 20 minutes, the time of the automated cycle of routine checks of the on-board equipment of the rocket is 18 minutes, crew 2 people.
Information preparation point(PPI) - designed to determine the coordinates of the target and prepare flight missions for missiles with their subsequent transfer to the SPU. The PPI is integrated with reconnaissance assets and can receive missions and assigned targets from all necessary sources, including from a satellite, aircraft or drone. Calculation 2 people.
Life support machine(MJO) - intended for accommodation, rest and eating of combat crews. Implemented on a KamAZ-43118 wheeled chassis. The machine includes: a rest compartment and a utility compartment. The rest compartment has 6 carriage-type berths with folding upper beds, 2 lockers, built-in lockers, and an opening window. The utility compartment has 2 lockers with seats, a folding lifting table, a water supply system with a 300-liter tank, a tank for heating water, a pump for pumping water, a drainage system, a sink, and a dryer for clothes and shoes.
ROCKET of the Iskander complex
is a solid-fuel, single-stage, with a warhead that is not detachable in flight, guided and vigorously maneuvered throughout the entire difficult-to-predict flight path. It maneuvers especially actively during the starting and final stages of the flight, during which it approaches the target with a high (20-30 units) overload.
This necessitates an anti-missile flight to intercept an Iskander OTRK missile with an overload 2-3 times greater, which is currently practically impossible.
Most of the flight path of the Iskander missile, made using stealth technology with a small reflective surface, passes at an altitude of 50 km, which also significantly reduces the likelihood of it being hit by the enemy. The “invisibility” effect is achieved due to the combination of design features of the rocket and the treatment of its surface with special coatings.
To launch a missile to a target it is used inertial control system, which is subsequently captured by an autonomous correlation-extreme optical homing head (GOS). The operating principle of the missile homing system is based on the formation by optical equipment of the seeker of an image of the terrain in the target area, which the on-board computer compares with the standard entered into it when preparing the missile for launch.
Optical homing head is characterized by increased sensitivity and resistance to existing electronic warfare systems, which allows missile launches on moonless nights without additional natural illumination and hit a moving target with an error of plus or minus two meters. Currently, except for the Iskander OTRK, no other similar missile system in the world can solve this problem.
It is characteristic that the optical homing system used in the rocket does not require corrective signals from space radio navigation systems, which in crisis situations can be disabled by radio interference or simply turned off. The integrated use of an inertial control system with satellite navigation equipment and an optical seeker made it possible to create a missile that can hit a given target in almost any possible conditions. The homing head installed on the Iskander OTRK missile can be installed on ballistic and cruise missiles of various classes and types.
Types of combat units
- cassette with fragmentation combat elements of non-contact detonation (detonated at a height of about 10 m above the ground)
— cassette with cumulative fragmentation combat elements
— cassette with self-aiming combat elements
— cassette volumetric-detonating action
— high-explosive fragmentation (HFBCH)
- high-explosive incendiary
— penetrating (PrBC)
The cluster warhead contains 54 combat elements.
The Iskander complex is integrated with various reconnaissance and control systems. It is capable of receiving information about a target designated for destruction from a satellite, reconnaissance aircraft or unmanned aerial vehicle (of the Reis-D type) to the information preparation point (PPI). It calculates the flight mission for the rocket and prepares reference information for the rockets.
This information is transmitted via radio channels to the command and staff vehicles of the division commanders and batteries, and from there to the launchers. Commands to launch missiles can come from the command gun or from the control posts of senior artillery commanders.
Placing two missiles on each SPU and TZM significantly increases the firepower of missile divisions, and a one-minute interval between missile launches against different targets ensures high fire performance. In terms of its effectiveness, taking into account the total combat capabilities, operational-tactical The Iskander missile system is equivalent to a nuclear weapon.
/Alex Varlamik, based on materials from arms-expo.ru and wikipedia.org/
