Otrk "Iskander": performance characteristics, history and application. Iskander missile system (7 photos) The role of satellite navigation systems

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

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.”

Now there is an informational reason for me to learn more about this weapon. And at the same time I’ll tell you :-)

More than 24 billion rubles have been allocated to 17 enterprises of the military-industrial complex to update production facilities for the serial production of Iskander-M missile systems; another 16 billion will be invested by the enterprises themselves

"Iskander-M" is an operational-tactical missile system developed at Kolomna OJSC "NPK "KBM". Iskander was first demonstrated in August 1999 at the MAKS aerospace salon. The complex is designed to destroy small-sized and area targets - missile systems, jet multiple launch rocket systems, long-range artillery, airplanes and helicopters at airfields, command posts and communications centers.

Iskander is a weapon capable of influencing the military-political situation in some regions of the world if the states located in them do not have an extended territory. The issues of deployment of Iskander complexes, as well as their export deliveries, are the subject of political consultations between the countries.

For serial production and delivery of Iskander-M, the production facilities of 17 specialized enterprises are currently being built and reconstructed. The total volume of capital investments from budgetary and own funds is 40 billion rubles. As of June 31, 14 cooperation enterprises have approved design assignments. Design assignments for three more enterprises are in the final stages of approval, and the start of reconstruction and technical re-equipment is scheduled for 2014.

On November 14, 2011, information appeared in Russian and foreign media about the next successful launch of the 9M723 guided operational-tactical missile of the 9K720 Iskander-M multi-purpose modular missile system. The launch took place on November 10 at the Kapustin Yar test site in the Astrakhan region as part of a four-day tactical exercise of the 630th separate missile division, armed with Iskander-M operational-tactical missile systems.

According to the official representative of the Ministry of Defense for Ground Forces, Lieutenant Colonel N. Donyushkin, “at the final stage of the exercise, a successful combat launch of a missile equipped with the latest equipment took place.” However, he did not specify what latest equipment the launched rocket was equipped with. Nevertheless, the Izvestia newspaper, citing a source in the General Staff, states that the operational-tactical missile was aimed at the target using a photographic image of the area. That is, during the flight of the rocket, a comparison was made between a real image of the terrain and a digital image pre-loaded into the rocket computer, and, as the same Izvestia source claims, “with such characteristics, the Iskander-M will be able to even reach the metro.”

Apparently, we are talking about one of the types of correlation seekers that correct the operation of the inertial control system of a rocket at the last stage of the flight trajectory, or more precisely, about the optical correlation seeker 9E436, created in the early 90s at the Moscow TsNIIAG and shown at Eurosatory-2004 . Some experts consider one of the disadvantages of this guidance system to be the impossibility of hitting a target that has not been photographed and loaded into the computer in advance, but it should be taken into account that there is another type of seeker - radar-correlation. According to military expert K. Sivkov, “thanks to this guidance system, the accuracy of the missile when hitting the target is no more than five meters. Considering that the mass of the 9M723 charge is 500 kg, this will make it possible to destroy almost any, even deeply buried objects on enemy territory. Now the accuracy of Iskander missiles is no more than ten meters.” He also added that “these missile systems need to be placed in the central part of the country, aimed at the west, which, if necessary, will make it possible to disable the missile defense system located in European countries in a few minutes.”

The operational-tactical missile system (OTRK) "Iskander" ("Iskander-E" - for export, "Iskander-M" - for the Russian army) was created under the conditions of the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty and the refusal to use nuclear weapons in theaters of war by opposing sides. In this regard, the complex was created taking into account such fundamentally new requirements for newly developed missile systems, such as: refusal to use nuclear weapons and the use of warheads only in conventional equipment, ensuring high firing accuracy, control of the missile along the entire (most part) of its trajectory flight, the ability to install warheads on a missile, taking into account the type of targets to be hit, a high degree of automation in the processes of information exchange and control of combat work.

At the same time, the complex must be able to use data from global satellite navigation systems (Glonass, NAVSTAR), hit moving and stationary targets with a high degree of protection, have increased fire performance, and effectively overcome enemy air and missile defense systems.

The development of the Iskander complex in its original form began at the Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau (Kolomna, hereinafter referred to as KBM) on an initiative basis by order of the chief designer S.P. Invincible and under his leadership in 1987. KBM’s competitor for the development of a new generation OTR was the Tula Instrument Design Bureau under the leadership of A.G. Shipunov, which proposed its project. The resolution of the USSR Council of Ministers on financing the design work of the complex was issued in 1988. When creating the complex, the task was set to ensure interaction within the RUK "Equality" with the M-55 target designation aircraft (developed by RUK - NIIEMI). The original project may have planned to use the SPU 9P76 with one missile. The KShM of the RUK "Equality" was designed on the MAZ-543 chassis (the KShM is similar to the KShM "Polyana").

The mobile high-precision operational-tactical missile system (OTRK) is designed to destroy small-sized and area targets with conventional combat units in the depths of the operational formation of enemy troops.

The goals may be:

· various means of fire destruction (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;

· critical civil infrastructure facilities;

· other important small-sized and area targets on enemy territory.

High mobility and short preparation time for launching missiles ensure the secret preparation of the Iskander OTRK for combat use.

The main elements that make up the Iskander OTRK are: a missile, a self-propelled launcher, a transport-loading vehicle, a routine maintenance vehicle, a command and staff vehicle, an information preparation point, a set of arsenal equipment, and training facilities.

Rocket The Iskander complex is a solid-fuel, single-stage, with a warhead that cannot be separated 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.

Group launch of OTR type 9M723K5 or similar complex 9K720 "Iskander-M" and OTR 9M79 complexes 9K79-1 "Tochka-U" during the exercise "Center-2011", Kapustin Yar training ground, 09/22/2011.

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 the missile to the target, an inertial control system is used, 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. The optical homing head is characterized by increased sensitivity and resistance to existing electronic warfare systems, which makes it possible to launch missiles 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.

To engage various types of targets, the missile can be equipped with ten types of warheads (cluster warhead with non-contact fragmentation warheads, cluster warhead with cumulative warheads, cluster warhead with self-aiming warheads, cluster warhead with volume-detonating action, high-explosive fragmentation warhead, high-explosive -incendiary warhead, penetrating to great depths of the warhead). The cassette warhead deploys at an altitude of 0.9-1.4 km, where combat elements of various effects are separated from it and continue their stabilized flight. They are equipped with radio sensors that ensure they are detonated at a height of 6-10 m above the target.

"Iskander - M" for the Russian Army, launcher for two missiles 9M723, 9M723-1, 9M723-1F or 9M723-1K (NATO classification SS-26 STONE), with a maximum flight range of up to 500 km (minimum range - 50 km) and a warhead mass of 480 kg (according to some sources, 500 kg). Single-stage solid-fuel rocket 9M723, controlled at all stages of flight with a quasi-ballistic trajectory. The warhead of a cluster-type missile has 54 fragmentation elements with non-contact detonation or also a cluster type with elements of a volumetric detonating effect. Curb flight weight - 3,800 kg, diameter - 920 mm, length - 7,200 mm.

"Iskander-K", a missile system for launching cruise missiles, for example R-500, the maximum flight range of which is up to 2,000 km.

Iskander-E, an export version of the missile system for the 9M723E missile (NATO classification SS-26 STONE B) with a maximum flight range of no more than 280 km and meeting the requirements of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).

This is the modern weapon of Russia

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sources
http: //www.arms-expo.ru
http: //topwar.ru
http: //militaryrussia.ru

The complex index is 9K720, according to the US and NATO classification - SS-26 Stone, English. Stone

Family of operational-tactical missile systems (OTRK): Iskander, Iskander-E, Iskander-K, Iskander-M. The complex was created at the Kolomna Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau (KBM). Iskander was first shown publicly in August 1999 at the MAKS aerospace show.

Story

The development of the Iskander OTRK was started in accordance with the resolution of the Central Committee of the CPSU and the Council of Ministers of the USSR dated December 21, 1988 No. 1452-294 “on the start of development work on the creation of the Iskander OTRK”, as a result, among other things, of the personal efforts of the chief KBM designer S.P. Invincible, who proved to the Military-Industrial Commission of the Presidium of the USSR Council of Ministers the need to create a missile system in place of the Oka OTRK that does not fall under the provisions of the INF Treaty with the United States.

On October 11, 2011, the first stage of testing of the updated Iskander-M missile system with new combat equipment was completed. The 9M723 missile of the Iskander-M complex is equipped with a new correlation guidance system.

Ammunition

The Iskander complex includes two types of missiles: ballistic 9M723 and cruise missiles bearing the index 9M728.

The 9M723 missile has one stage with a solid propellant engine.

The trajectory of movement is quasi-ballistic (not ballistic, maneuvering), the rocket is controlled throughout the entire flight using aerodynamic and gas-dynamic rudders. Made using technologies to reduce radar signature (so-called “Stealth technologies”): small dispersion surface, special coatings, small size of protruding parts. Most of the flight takes place at an altitude of about 50 km. The missile conducts intensive maneuvering with overloads of the order of 20-30 units during the initial and final phases of the flight. The guidance system is mixed: inertial in the initial and middle phases of the flight and optical (using a seeker developed by TsNIIAG) in the final phase of the flight, which achieves high accuracy of 5-7 m. It is possible to use GPS/GLONASS in addition to the inertial guidance system. There are several modifications of the rocket that differ in warhead and telemetry.

On September 20, 2014, during the Vostok-2014 command and staff exercises, the Iskander-M missile system was fired for the first time with a 9M728 cruise missile. The launches were carried out by the 107th separate missile brigade (Birobidzhan). Developer and manufacturer - OKB Novator. Chief designer - P.I. Kamnev. The missile was tested on May 30, 2007. Firing range: maximum - up to 500 km.

Starting from 2013, it is planned to supply the Russian Armed Forces with missiles equipped with an electronic warfare system that will provide missile cover during the final flight phase. This system includes means of passive and active jamming of enemy air and missile defense surveillance and firing radars using noise and the release of false targets.

Options

Option for the Russian armed forces, 2 missiles on launchers, the firing range in various sources varies from that stated for the Iskander-E - 280 km - to 500 km (it is not indicated with what type of warhead (warhead mass) the corresponding range is achieved). The flight altitude is 6-50 km, most of which usually takes place at maximum altitude. Controlled throughout the flight. The flight path is not ballistic and difficult to predict. The missile is made using low radar signature technology and also has a radar-absorbing coating and is a relatively small target in natural physical size. Predicting the target when attempting an early interception is further complicated by intensive maneuvering during takeoff and descent to the target. When descending to the target, the missile maneuvers with an overload of 20-30 units, descending at a speed of 700-800 m/s (these figures exceed or are on the verge of the capabilities of the best mid-range missile defense/air defense systems), at an angle of about 90 degrees (in some cases only the angle of attack is sufficient for complete defenselessness of the attacked missile defense system, and even more so air defense, especially short-range ones), thus the Iskander-M has a number of advantages over its analogues, and high capabilities not just for hitting a target, but even for means of defense in the form of modern missile defense systems.

The missile carries a complex set of passive and active jammers; when approaching the target, false targets and jammers are additionally shot at. Model M is additionally equipped with an electronic warfare system to disrupt the operation of enemy radars. All this also provides the missile with high combat effectiveness in comparison with simpler similar missiles.

Maneuvering at high altitudes is ensured by speed and aerodynamic rudders. Such maneuvering is not intensive, but it places extremely high demands on the reaction time for the interceptor (in a hundredth of a second, missiles get closer to tens of meters, the reaction time of one of the fastest-responding missile defense systems is more than 5 seconds, as well as open-source air defense systems). If the interceptor is kinetic, this also requires successful trajectory prediction with high accuracy. To successfully intercept a ballistic target with a high probability, previously created before the Iskander non-ballistic complexes, it was sufficiently early to detect a target of appropriate size and speed, and, having predicted the trajectory, ensure the interception. However, Iskander changes his trajectory. The Oka complex, the predecessor of the Iskander, could change the target while maintaining a stable trajectory before and after the maneuver, thereby moving away from the interceptor, or at least reducing the effective protection zone, requiring time to recalculate the meeting point.

Export version, firing range 280 km, warhead weight 480 kg. It is a simplified version of the Iskander-M. Maneuvering the rocket at high altitude is ensured by aerodynamic rudders and a flight speed of 2100 meters per second throughout the high-altitude flight. Satisfies the conditions of the Missile Technology Control Regime.

Option using cruise missiles, firing range 500 km, warhead weight 480 kg. The missile's flight altitude is about 7 meters when reaching the target, and no higher than 6 km; the missile is automatically adjusted throughout the flight and automatically follows the terrain. R-500 cruise missiles with a range of 2000 km are also being assembled for the Iskander-K OTRK.

Combat use

There is no reliable information about the combat use of Iskander complexes, but there have been reports, refuted by the Russian military, that the complex was used during the Georgian-South Ossetian armed conflict of 2008.

According to the head of the Analytical Department of the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs, Shota Utiashvili, Russia used Iskander missile systems at sites in Poti, Gori and the Baku-Supsa pipeline.

In blogs, Utiashvili’s statement was widely discussed and was received ambiguously, since some of the photographs of several sustainer stages presented as evidence refer not to the Iskander, but to the 9M79 missiles of the Tochka-U complexes, while the other part of the photographs actually shows fragments with the applied code 9M723, corresponding to the designation of the Iskander missiles.

Mikhail Barabanov, an expert from the Moscow Defense Brief, points out that the Iskander complex was used at the base of a separate tank battalion in Gori. As a result of a direct hit by a warhead on the Georgian battalion's weapons depot, it was blown up. However, the author notes that this information is based on unverified sources. A Dutch commission investigating the circumstances of the death of RTL Nieuws television cameraman Stan Storimans in Gori on August 12, 2008, determined that the journalist died from being hit by one 5-mm steel ball. According to the BBC, the Dutch commission expressed an expert opinion that the carrier of the cluster munition was Iskander, but the report did not indicate on what grounds such a conclusion was made. The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that the data provided by the Dutch side is not enough to determine the type of carrier. Earlier, Human Rights Watch put forward another version, according to which the death of the Dutch journalist was caused by RBK-250 aviation cluster bombs.

Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Colonel General Anatoly Nogovitsyn, denied all reports about the use of Iskander missiles in Georgia, saying that the Iskander complex was not used during the fighting in South Ossetia.

A little about politics

The Iskander operational-tactical missile system is a weapon that can affect the military-political situation in some regions of the world if the states located in them do not have an extended territory. Therefore, the issues of the location of Iskander complexes, as well as their export deliveries, are the subject of political consultations between countries.

On November 5, 2008, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, speaking to the Federal Assembly, said that the response to the American missile defense system in Poland would be the deployment of Iskander missile systems in the Kaliningrad region. But after the United States refused to deploy a missile defense system in Eastern Europe, Medvedev said that in response Russia would not deploy this complex in the Kaliningrad region. Due to the escalation of tensions between Russia and the United States, at the end of 2011 the issue of deploying the Iskander OTRK in the Kaliningrad region remained open. On November 23, 2011, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev again stated that the Russian Federation is ready to deploy the Iskander complex if NATO countries continue to deploy a missile defense system in Europe.

On January 25, 2012, it became known that the first division of Iskander operational-tactical missile systems in the Kaliningrad region would be deployed and put on combat duty by Russia in the second half of 2012. However, on the same day, the Russian Ministry of Defense denied this information, stating that no decision was made by the General Staff on the approval of the staff of the military unit of the Baltic Fleet, armed with Iskander missile systems. On December 15, 2013, German media, citing sources in security structures, reported that Russia had deployed Iskander missile systems in the Kaliningrad region. This is evidenced by satellite images, which show at least ten Iskander-M complexes deployed in Kaliningrad, as well as along the border with the Baltic countries. The rollout could occur throughout 2013.

The complexes were transferred to the Kaliningrad region during military exercises and a surprise check of the combat readiness of the Western Military District and the Northern Fleet in December 2014 and March 2015.

In 2005, it became known about plans to supply Iskander complexes to Syria. This caused a sharp negative reaction from Israel and the United States. During a visit to Israel, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a ban on such supplies to prevent an imbalance of power in the region. In August 2008, during a visit to Moscow, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad expressed his readiness to deploy complexes in Syria.

On February 15, 2010, the President of the unrecognized Transnistria, Igor Smirnov, spoke in favor of deploying Iskander missiles in the republic in response to plans to deploy US missile defense systems in Romania and Bulgaria.

In service

Russia (as of February 2016): 6 brigades (72 SPU)

26th missile brigade of the Western Military District (Luga) - the re-equipment of the brigade began in 2010 with the supply of 6 complexes (PU), in 2011 the formation of the first brigade (12 PU) was completed;
-107th missile brigade of the Eastern Military District (Birobidzhan) - completely rearmed on June 28, 2013 (12 launchers);
-1st Missile Brigade of the Southern Military District (Krasnodar) - transfer of equipment took place on November 14, 2013 (12 launchers);
-112th separate guards missile brigade of the Western Military District (Shuya) - transfer of equipment took place on July 8, 2014 (12 launchers);

92nd separate missile brigade (Orenburg) Central Military District - transfer of equipment took place on November 19, 2014 (12 launchers);
-103rd separate missile brigade (Ulan-Ude) of the Eastern Military District - transfer of equipment took place on July 17, 2015 (12 launchers);
By 2018, it is planned to re-equip all missile brigades with the Iskander OTRK

Main characteristics

Purpose of the complex

Designed to engage combat units in conventional equipment 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
-planes and helicopters at airfields
- command posts and communication centers
-critical civil infrastructure facilities

Composition of the complex

The complex includes six types of vehicles (51 units per missile brigade):

-Self-propelled launcher (SPU) (9P78-1)

12 pcs. - designed for storing, transporting, preparing and launching two missiles at a target. Iskander can be made on the basis of a special wheeled chassis produced by the Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant (MZKT-7930). Gross weight 42 tons, payload 19 tons, highway/dirt road speed 70/40 km/h, fuel range 1000 km. Calculation 3 people.

-Transport-loading machine (TZM) (9T250 (9T250E))

12 pcs. - designed to transport two additional missiles. Made on the MZKT-7930 chassis, equipped with a loading crane. Total combat weight 40 tons. Crew 2 people.

-Command and staff vehicle (KShM) (9S552)

11 pcs. - designed to control the entire Iskander complex. Assembled on a KAMAZ 43101 wheeled chassis. Radio station R-168-100KAE “Aqueduct”. Calculation 4 people. Characteristics of the crankshaft:
-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. Made 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 (IPI) (9С920, KAMAZ 43101)

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.

-Life support machine (LSM)

14 pcs. - designed for accommodation, rest and eating of combat crews. It is made on a KAMAZ 43118 wheeled chassis. The vehicle 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.

-A set of arsenal equipment and training facilities

Combat characteristics

Circular probable deviation: 10-30 m (depending on the guidance system used); 5-7 m (Iskander-M using a missile with a correlation seeker)
-Rocket launch weight: 3,800 kg
-Warhead mass: 480 kg
-Length: 7.2 m
-Diameter: 920 mm
-Rocket speed after the initial part of the trajectory: 2,100 m/s Maximum overloads during flight - 20-30G (the rocket maneuvers in flight both in altitude and in flight direction). The maximum trajectory altitude is 50 km.

Minimum target engagement range: 50 km
-Maximum target range:
-500 km Iskander-K (2000 km with R-500 cruise missile)
-280 km Iskander-E (export)
-Guidance: INS, GLONASS, Optical seeker
-Time before first rocket launch: 4-16 minutes
-Interval between launches: 1 minute (for 9P78 launcher with two missiles)
- Operating temperature range: from? 50 degrees C to 50 degrees C
-Operation life: 10 years, including 3 years in field conditions

Types of head parts

In normal equipment:
- cassette with 54 fragmentation combat elements of non-contact detonation (triggered 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)
-special (nuclear)

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 class. 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 guard 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.

	Iskander - M
	Iskander – K (R-500)
	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.