Iskander missile system. The Elusive Rocket Avenger
A modern strike weapons complex capable of using various types of guided missiles with trajectories that complicate the operation of missile defense systems.
Iskander is sometimes referred to as the “family of missile systems” because of variety of possible equipment. It was developed by the Kolomna "Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering" according to the technical specifications from the end 1980s , first shown in 1999, adopted for service in 2006. He is the heir to the Tochka missile systems of the ground forces ("Tochka-U" ) and "Oka", but significantly surpasses them in characteristics and tactical capabilities.
Since 2007 he has entered the military. Starting from 2013, purchases of Iskander will not be carried out in parts, as before, but immediately in brigade sets of equipment. According to the plans of the State Armament Program, by 2020 the ground forces will receive at least 120 systems (ten brigade sets).
The Iskander is mounted on an autonomous self-propelled launcher. Two missiles are placed on a single wheeled chassis in a closed housing. The type of missiles is different, depending on the modification of the complex. Iskander has three of them (in fact, these are separate missile systems): Iskander-M, Iskander-E and Iskander-K.
The Iskander-M self-propelled launcher carries two 9 M723−1 tactical ballistic missiles. The engine is solid fuel. The missile equipment of ground forces complexes is traditionally very diverse. These include cluster warheads with fragmentation and cumulative elements, including self-aiming ones (they open at an altitude of 900-1400 meters and fire a cloud of destructive elements over the target). These are ordinary high-explosive fragmentation warheads. These are high explosive incendiary parts. These are penetrating warheads for hitting buried targets such as bunkers. And finally, these are “special” (nuclear) combat units.
According to some information, it is possible to equip missiles with correction systems at the final stage of flight (radar or optical), which increases its accuracy at the final stage literally up to a circle with a radius of 1-2 meters from the aiming point, and also, if necessary, allows you to work on the target autonomously (without participation external target designation and space navigation systems - the use of satellite correction, by the way, is also provided for on the rocket). No operational-tactical missile system in the world has such capabilities.
The firing range is 400-500 km (up to the upper limit limited by the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty), the missile weight is 3800 kg, of which 480 kg is the warhead.
The fundamental difference between the 9 M723−1 missile and its predecessors is the so-called “quasi-ballistic” trajectory. The missile is controlled throughout the flight (and not in the acceleration phase, like a conventional ballistic one) through the use of aero- and gas-dynamic rudders. Not only does this ensure high-precision targeting of the target, but it also does not make it possible to “predict” its ballistic trajectory based on radar detections, which greatly complicates the interception of a missile by tactical missile defense systems.
The export version of Iskander-E is a tactical 9M723E ballistic missile system with roughened characteristics. In particular, the missile's range is limited to 280 km according to international missile technology control regimes.
The most interesting is the most classified version of the complex - Iskander-K (tested in May 2007). Here the complex is used as a launch platform for the latest R-500 cruise missiles. In principle, the use of such land-launched cruise missiles with a range of over 500 km is also prohibited by the INF Treaty. So the operating range of the Iskander in this version is 500 km.
"Iskander" (complex index - 9K720, according to the classification of the US Department of Defense and NATO - SS-26 Stone, English Stone) - family of operational-tactical missile systems: Iskander, Iskander-E, Iskander-K. The complex was developed at the Kolomna Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau (KBM).
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:
Composition of the complex
Command and staff vehicle (KShM) (9S552) - designed to control the entire Iskander complex. Implemented 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
Combat characteristics
- 500 km Iskander-K
- 280 km Iskander-E
Types of combat units
It can also be equipped with nuclear and chemical charges.
Rocket
The missile of the 9M723K1 complex has one stage with a solid propellant engine. The trajectory is quasi-ballistic, the rocket is controlled throughout the flight using aerodynamic and gas-dynamic rudders. Manufactured using technologies to reduce radar signature (analogous to the low visibility technology of NATO countries "Stealth"): 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 about 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 the Central Research Institute of Automation and Hydraulics, TsNIIAG) in the final phase of the flight, which achieves high accuracy. It is possible to use GPS/GLONASS in addition to the inertial guidance system.
Options
The Iskander can be equipped with R-500 cruise missiles, the firing range of which exceeds 2000 km.
Combat use
There is no reliable information about the combat use of the 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 presented as evidence of several sustainer stages refer not to the Iskander, but to the 9M79 missiles of the Tochka-U complexes, while another part of the photographs actually shows debris from marked with the 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 in the weapons depot of a Georgian battalion, it detonated. 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 Iskander was the carrier of the cluster munition, 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 hostilities in South Ossetia.
Policy
The Iskander OTRK is a powerful weapon that can fundamentally change the military-political situation in certain regions of the world, therefore the issues of deployment of Iskander complexes, as well as their export deliveries, are often part of political consultations between countries.
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 current geopolitical situation is such that in order to maintain sovereignty and authority in international relations, the country simply needs modern weapons. This is especially true when it comes to tactical nuclear systems, which are the last guarantee of peace on the planet. Of course, strategic missiles play the main role in deterring a potential enemy, but even the Iskander missile system can deter many from making rash decisions.
This type of weapon was created to destroy low-visibility targets in layered enemy defenses while on the move. This is all the more important because the modern strategy for conducting military operations presupposes preventive disarmament strikes that will not allow a potential enemy to use his missile defense systems.
Creation conditions
It was created in conditions when the USSR and the USA signed a treaty limiting the number of tactical nuclear warheads (INF). This happened in 1987. At the same time, potential adversaries agreed on a complete renunciation of the use of nuclear weapons in future combat conditions.
It was precisely because of this that a huge number of requirements were placed on the new complex: a complete abandonment of nuclear destructive elements was required, it was necessary to ensure almost pinpoint accuracy of fire, coupled with the highest possible controllability of the rocket. In addition, specialists were required to ensure the greatest possible degree of automation of both the flight of the rocket and its launch.
Not least because of this, the Iskander missile system in Kaliningrad created a real “furor” among Baltic politicians, who, in panic, began to talk about a new threat looming over their sovereignty.
The role of satellite navigation systems
The main requirement, which corresponds to the realities of our time, was the possibility of using data obtained from satellite positioning systems (GLONASS, NAVSTAR). The new complex was required to be able to hit even moving armored targets with high efficiency, have the highest possible rate of fire, and also overcome the enemy’s deeply layered missile defense system.
First experience
The finished Iskander missile system was first tested back in 2007. S. Ivanov, who was then Prime Minister, reported to the President that the deviation from the target did not exceed one meter. These outstanding results were fully confirmed after reviewing data from all visual controls that were used in testing that day.
All this splendor was created in KBM, Kolomna. This design bureau is known all over the world, since it was from here that the Tochka, Strela and Osa complexes, as well as other examples of domestic air defense systems of various generations, began their “career”. Other elements were manufactured at the Titan Central Design Bureau (launching system), Central Research Institute of Automation and Hydraulics (the most important automatic projectile guidance system).
What is it intended for?
As we have already said, the Iskander missile system was created specifically for targeted strikes against targets deeply hidden behind enemy lines, protected by modern missile defense systems.
The following objects can act as targets:
- Enemy artillery and missile systems, large concentrations of armored vehicles.
- ABM means.
- Aviation formations at the time of deployment at airfields.
- All command and communications personnel of the complex.
- Large infrastructure facilities, the loss of which would have a painful impact on the enemy.
- Other important objects in enemy territory.
Since the Iskander anti-aircraft missile system is distinguished by its stealth and very high speed of preparation for launch, it poses a very serious threat to all potential adversaries.
What is included in Iskander?
The complex includes the following important elements: a self-propelled installation for it, a machine for transporting and loading shells. In addition, there is a separate complex for the repair and maintenance of all equipment, a headquarters and a special machine for analyzing the information received, as well as training tools for personnel.
Characteristics of the rocket used
The Iskander tactical missile system we are considering uses a solid-fuel rocket with one stage, the warhead of which does not separate in flight. Despite vigorous maneuvering in flight, the projectile can be controlled throughout its entire path by an operator from the command post. The product is particularly maneuverable at launch and when approaching the target, when the rocket is under overloads of 30G. Since missile defense systems must approach it at twice the speed, at present there are simply no effective means of countering the Iskander.
The shell body is made using a special technique that reduces its visibility to enemy air defense systems. In addition, the missile travels most of its way at an altitude of more than 50 km, which also reduces the chances of its timely interception tenfold. Invisibility to radar is ensured by special coatings, the composition of which is classified.
This is precisely what explains the triumph of domestic industry when the Iskander was adopted. A missile system (Kaliningrad and its entirety is already equipped) of this type should soon be received by all military units in the country.
Principles of targeting
The launch of the missile to the target is carried out by the complex operators, after which the most complex homing system comes into play. The equipment scans the terrain in flight, forming a digital model of it. It is constantly compared with the image standard that was loaded into the rocket’s memory before the flight.
The optical homing head is characterized by excellent protection against jamming systems, as well as excellent ability to recognize targets in almost any conditions. This allows you to hit a moving target (with an error of no more than a couple of meters) on a completely moonless night. Such accuracy under such conditions cannot be achieved by any of the missile systems in service with NATO.
This is why they don’t like Iskander there. The missile system in Syria, delivered there in December last year, immediately reduced the intensity of passions and helped the legitimate government oust anti-popular forces from the country. In addition, the Russian side received valuable information about the combat use of the latest missiles.
"Independent" rocket
Despite the fact that under normal conditions the Iskander missile system can be guided by signals from satellites of global positioning systems, in the right conditions its operators can do just fine without them. Electro-optical guidance systems are so accurate that they make it possible to hit targets in almost any given conditions.
By the way, the Iskander homing system, if necessary, can be easily installed even on ballistic nuclear missiles, which makes the prospects of a potential enemy completely gloomy. Because of this, the Russian Iskander missile system has a very sinister reputation in the West, although its characteristics clearly do not reach those of intercontinental nuclear weapons.
Characteristics of the warhead
The designers included the possibility of using ten different types of ammunition at once. These include elements with non-contact detonation, combat elements with cumulative action, cluster ammunition with homing elements, as well as simple high-explosive, fragmentation and incendiary varieties. If a missile with homing elements is used, they will hit multiple targets, exploding at a height of six to ten meters above them.
The projectile itself in firing position weighs almost four tons, and the weight of the warhead itself is 480 kg. Thus, the Iskander-K missile system is one of the most powerful non-nuclear deterrent weapons in service with our army.
Characteristics of other elements
The self-propelled launch system allows you to simultaneously transport up to two missiles, allowing you to launch them at an angle of up to 90 degrees relative to the terrain. It is located on a wheeled chassis with an 8x8 formula, which can even pass through places where there are no roads at all (MAZ-79306 “Astrologer”). Among other things, this ensures the maximum possible mobility of the complex even in wartime.
Some characteristics of control and guidance equipment
The installation can independently determine the coordinates of its location, exchange information with all elements of the Iskander, and provide single and salvo missile launches. The time from arrival to salvo is no more than 20 minutes, provided the crew is prepared, and no more than one minute elapses between shell launches. This makes the Iskander missile system, whose characteristics are already impressive, a very dangerous means of attack.
There is no need to prepare starting positions. In addition, the crew does not need to leave the cockpit: having received the order, the specialists stop the Iskander in a given square, prepare all systems and fire a salvo. The only exception is swampy areas, where it is necessary to prepare a more or less stable launch pad. After the launch, the vehicle moves to pre-designated positions for recharging.
Thus, Iskander-M is a new generation missile system that provides reliable protection of state sovereignty.
Information about the chassis and other vehicles
The chassis weight is 42 tons, the weight of the transported payload is at least 19 tons, and on highways and paved country roads the speed is 70 (40) km/h. At one gas station, the Iskander can travel at least 1000 km. The usual crew size is three people, but in wartime their number can be increased.
The vehicle for transportation and loading is also mounted on the MAZ-79306 (“Astrologer”) chassis. Equipped with a hydromechanical loading mechanism. The mass is exactly 40 tons; maintenance will require two people.
Headquarters complex
The heart of the entire complex is the command and staff vehicle. It is produced on the basis of KAMAZ vehicles. Information exchange between all elements of the Iskander can be carried out both in normal and deeply encrypted mode. In the latter case, the speed of information exchange does not suffer in any way.
The headquarters complex is equipped with four fully automated positions for operators; the maximum range of data transmission between vehicles is 350 kilometers for parked vehicles and 50 kilometers in combat march conditions. The continuous operation time of all elements of the guidance and control system is about two days.
Mechanical Maintenance Machine
As in the previous case, it is based on the chassis of KamAZ vehicles. Designed to check the condition of missiles both in the launcher itself and in transport containers, it allows you to check and repair all the devices and mechanisms of the complex without resorting to transporting it to the place of permanent deployment. The machine weighs only 13.5 tons, deploys in less than 20 minutes, and the time to check all systems and mechanisms does not exceed 18 minutes. The complex is serviced by two people.
In general, the Iskander missile system, the performance characteristics of which we are revealing, is distinguished by its rare maintainability even in the most extreme conditions.
Information collection, analysis and preparation point
This machine is used to collect and analyze information that is intended to be entered into the on-board computer of missiles. The structure includes two automated workstations for operators who can detect and transmit the coordinates of attacked targets in one to two minutes. Can carry out continuous combat duty for 16 hours.
Finally, the life support machine. It can be made on the chassis of any commercially produced truck and serves for resting and eating for up to eight people at the same time.
Key features of the complex
Its main advantage is how and by whom Iskander-M was created. designed by outstanding designers based on all the data accumulated by the Soviet and Russian armies. At the moment, it significantly surpasses not only all previous domestic developments, but also all competing foreign models.
In general, the Iskander anti-aircraft missile system has a number of key features:
- Incredibly accurate destruction of even small and well-protected targets from the air.
- Its stealth and rapid deployment make it an extremely dangerous adversary.
- The combat mission can be effectively carried out even in the face of active enemy opposition.
- Excellent tactical maneuverability and cross-country ability, ensured by the high characteristics of the transport chassis.
- The highest degree of automation of all combat processes.
- Long service life and ease of even field repairs.
In addition, the Iskander operational-tactical missile system fully meets all the requirements imposed by international treaties on the non-proliferation of certain types of weapons. In local conflicts it can be considered as a deterrent weapon, and for countries with a small territory it can even be the main type of missile weapons. The structure of the complex suggests the possibility of further modification, which guarantees the Iskander long service in guarding state interests.
Other positives
The control and guidance system is deeply integrated with similar equipment of all similar complexes that are in service with the state. It can receive information not only from a data collection and processing machine, but also from a reconnaissance aircraft, UAV or other equipment. The flight mission is calculated almost instantly. The command for a combat launch can be given not only by the commander of the complex, but also by the high military command from closed positions.
Since one Iskander carries two missiles on board, and not even two minutes pass between their salvos, the power of a division fully equipped with these complexes is comparable to that of a small country. In principle, with the correct choice of ammunition, this type of weapon is quite equivalent to a short-range nuclear weapon.
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
