Iskander missile launcher. Iskander operational-tactical missile system. Combat characteristics of the complex

High-precision missile system of the ground forces "Iskander" Designed for covert preparation and delivery of effective missile strikes against particularly important small-sized and area targets.

It was created as a result of the joint work of a group of research institutes, design bureaus and factories under the leadership of the Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau (KBM), known as the company that created the Tochka and Oka missile systems.

Under the conditions of the 1987 INF Treaty and the cessation of the use of nuclear weapons in theaters of operations, a number of fundamentally new requirements are imposed on modern tactical systems:

the use of only non-nuclear weapons;
ensuring precision shooting accuracy;
control along the entire flight path;
a wide range of effective combat equipment;
the presence in the complex of a combat control automation system and an information support system, including the preparation of reference information for correction and final guidance systems;
possibility of integration with global satellite navigation systems (GSSN - GLONASS, NAVSTAR);
the ability to hit heavily protected targets;
increased fire performance;
the ability to effectively overcome the effects of air defense and missile defense systems;
the ability to hit moving targets.

To meet the above requirements, the missile system was created “ Iskander", which has absorbed the best scientific, technical and design achievements in the field of operational-tactical missile systems and, in terms of the totality of implemented technical solutions, high combat effectiveness, is a weapon of a completely new generation, superior in its tactical and technical characteristics to the existing Scud-B missile systems, “Tochka-U”, “Lance”, “ATASMS”, “Pluton”, etc.

Iskander is designed to destroy:

enemy fire weapons (air defense missile systems, missile defense batteries);
airplanes and helicopters at airfield parking lots;
air defense and missile defense facilities;
command posts and communication centers;
critical civil infrastructure facilities.

Thanks to the implementation of terminal control and guidance methods, control along the entire flight path, a wide range of powerful combat units and the integration of onboard control systems with various correction and homing systems, as well as the high probability of completing a combat mission in conditions of active enemy counteraction, typical targets are hit by launching just 1– 2 Iskander missiles, which is equivalent in effectiveness to the use of nuclear weapons.

For the first time in the world, a missile system with a firing range not exceeding 300 km is capable of solving all combat missions using non-nuclear warheads and has two missiles on the launcher, which significantly increases the fire performance of missile formations.

Main features of the Iskander rocket launcher:

highly accurate and effective destruction of various types of targets;
the possibility of covert training, combat duty and effective missile strikes;
automatic calculation and input of missile flight missions using launcher means;
high probability of completing a combat mission in the face of active enemy opposition;
high probability of trouble-free functioning of the rocket during preparation for launch, as well as in flight;
high tactical maneuverability due to the high maneuverability of combat vehicles mounted on all-wheel drive chassis,
strategic mobility due to the transportability of vehicles by all modes of transport, including transport aviation;
automation of combat control of missile units,
prompt processing and communication of intelligence information to the appropriate management levels;
long service life and ease of use.

The Iskander, in its tactical and technical characteristics, fully complies with the provisions of the Missile Technology Non-Proliferation Control Regime. This is a “weapon of deterrence” in local conflicts, and for countries with limited living space - a strategic weapon.

According to NATO classification, the complex received the designation SS-26.

The complex includes:

rocket;
self-propelled launcher;
transport-charging machine;
command and control vehicle;
mobile information preparation station;
mobile units of technical and household support, as well as sets of arsenal and training equipment.

The Iskander can be equipped with cluster (with 54 combat elements), penetrating, high-explosive fragmentation, and in the future other warheads.

The rocket itself is single-stage, has a solid-fuel engine with one nozzle, and is controlled along the entire flight path using aerodynamic and gas-dynamic rudders. The designers included in the Iskander the potential to overcome missile defense, comparable today only to the Topol-M. Calculated data show that the promising American Patriot air defense system PAC-3 Iskander will be too tough for itself.

The flight path of the Iskander is not ballistic, but controlled. The missile constantly changes its trajectory plane, which dictates the need for air defense system developers to invent new interception methods. She maneuvers especially actively during her acceleration and approach to the target - with an overload of 20 to 30 g. In order to intercept an Iskander, the anti-missile missile must move along a trajectory with an overload two to three times higher, and this is practically impossible. In addition, the rocket is made using the technology " stealth"and has a minimal reflective surface.

The missile is launched directly at the target using an inertial control system, and then captured by an autonomous optical homing head. A similar homing principle is implemented in the most modern American cruise missiles. Tomahawk" And CALCM, capable of identifying the terrain in the target area based on previously entered photographic data. The effectiveness of such guidance systems was confirmed during US military operations in Iraq and Yugoslavia.

Similar equipment for the Iskander was created by the Central Research Institute of Automation and Hydraulics, the leading domestic developer of guidance and control systems for tactical and operational-tactical missiles. Moreover, the homing head created at TsNIIAG can also be used on ballistic and cruise missiles of various classes and types. The head has already passed flight tests and showed accuracy no worse than that achieved by the Americans on their Tomahawks.

The operating principle of the Iskander homing system is that optical equipment forms an image of the terrain in the target area, which is compared by the on-board computer with a standard entered during the preparation of the missile for launch. All existing active electronic warfare systems are powerless against the optical head. It is so sensitive that it allows successful missile launches even on moonless nights, when there is no additional natural target illumination, hitting a moving target with an error of plus or minus two meters. No other tactical system in the world can solve such a problem, except for the Iskander.

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. 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.

The practice of wars of recent decades shows that no matter how effective a weapon is, it cannot make a significant contribution to victory if it is not integrated with intelligence and control systems. "Iskander" was created taking into account this pattern. 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 missile, 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.

The most important feature of the launcher was the placement of more than one on it (as in “ Point" And " Oke"), but two missiles. One minute after the first one is launched, the second one can start. The fire crew does not leave the cabin. The launcher itself was developed by the Volgograd Central Design Bureau "Titan" and, in addition to missiles, carries a full set of equipment for preparation and launch.

The long firing range, which allows the complex to be used from deep within the location of friendly troops, and the short time spent at the starting position make the complex virtually invulnerable to conventional weapons.

Research conducted by specialists from leading Russian military research centers has shown that, according to the “effectiveness-cost” criterion, the Iskander missile system is 5–8 times superior to the best foreign analogues.

The structure of the complex, its control systems, automated combat control and information support make it possible to quickly respond to new requirements without significant modification of its combat assets and, as a result, guarantee it a long life cycle.

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

“Iskander” (9K720) family of operational-tactical missile systems (OTRK) of the ground forces: Iskander, Iskander-E, Iskander-K, Iskander-M. Designed for covert preparation and delivery of effective missile strikes against particularly important small-sized and area targets deep in the operational formation of enemy troops.

Iskander missile system - video of missile launch

The Iskander OTRK (9K720) was created as a result of the joint work of a group of research institutes, design bureaus and factories under the leadership of the Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau (KBM Kolomna), known as the company that created the Tochka and Oka missile systems. The launcher was developed by the Titan Design Bureau (Volgograd), the homing system was developed by the Central Research Institute of Automation and Hydraulics (Moscow).

the use of only non-nuclear weapons;
ensuring precision shooting accuracy;
control along the entire flight path;
a wide range of effective combat equipment;
the presence in the complex of a combat control automation system and an information support system, including the preparation of reference information for correction and final guidance systems;
possibility of integration with global satellite navigation systems (GSSN - "GLONASS", "NAVSTAR");
the ability to hit heavily protected targets;
increased fire performance;
the ability to effectively overcome the effects of air defense and missile defense systems;
the ability to hit moving targets.

To meet the above requirements, an export version of the OTRK 9K720 was created, which received the designation "Iskander-E." "Iskander-E" absorbed the best scientific, technical and design achievements in the field of operational-tactical missile systems and, in terms of the totality of implemented technical solutions, high combat effectiveness is a weapon of a completely new generation, superior in its tactical and technical characteristics to the existing RK 9K72 "Elbrus", "Tochka-U", "Lance", "ATASMS", "Pluton", etc.

Main features of the RK 9K720 Iskander:

highly accurate and effective destruction of various types of targets;
the possibility of covert training, combat duty and effective missile strikes;
automatic calculation and input of missile flight missions using launcher means;
high probability of completing a combat mission in the face of active enemy opposition;
high probability of trouble-free functioning of the rocket during preparation for launch, as well as in flight;
high tactical maneuverability due to the high maneuverability of combat vehicles mounted on all-wheel drive chassis,
strategic mobility due to the transportability of vehicles by all modes of transport, including transport aviation;
automation of combat control of missile units,
prompt processing and communication of intelligence information to the appropriate management levels;
long service life and ease of use.

In terms of its tactical and technical characteristics, Iskander-E fully complies with the provisions of the Missile Technology Non-Proliferation Control Regime. This is a “weapon of deterrence” in local conflicts, and for countries with limited living space - a strategic weapon. The structure of the complex, its control systems, automated combat control and information support make it possible to quickly respond to new requirements without significant modification of its combat assets and, as a result, guarantee it a long life cycle.

To arm the Russian army, a version of the Iskander-M missile system with an increased flight range (more than 450 km) has been developed, as well as an Iskander-K equipped with the R-500 high-precision cruise missile (range up to 2600 km) of the Caliber system developed by Yekaterinburg OJSC "OKB "Novator". The complex was successfully tested in 2007 at the Kapustin Yar training ground.
In 2007, the training division in Kapustin Yar, which took part in the war with Georgia in August 2008, was equipped with Iskander-M complexes (four combat vehicles).

In the west, the complex received the designation SS-26.

The Iskander complex includes:

9M723 rocket;
self-propelled launcher 9P78 (SPU);
transport-loading machine 9T250 (TZM);
command and staff vehicle 9S552 (KShM);
mobile information preparation station 9S920 (PPI);
regulation and maintenance machine (MRTO);
life support machine;
sets of arsenal and training equipment.

9M723 missile of the Iskander complex

Solid propellant, single-stage with a warhead that cannot be separated in flight. The rocket is controlled throughout its flight path using aerodynamic and gas-dynamic rudders. The flight path of the 9M723 is not ballistic, but controlled. The rocket constantly changes its trajectory plane. It maneuvers especially actively during its acceleration and approach to the target - with an overload of 20 to 30g. In order to intercept a 9M723 missile, the antimissile must move along a trajectory with an overload two to three times higher, and this is practically impossible. Most of the flight path of a missile made using Stealth technology and having 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 through a combination of design features and the treatment of the rocket with special coatings.

The missile is launched directly at the target using an inertial control system, and then captured by an autonomous correlation-extreme optical homing head (see photo). The principle of operation of the OTR 9M723 homing system is that optical equipment forms an image of the terrain in the target area, which is compared by the on-board computer with the standard entered during the preparation of the missile for launch. The optical head has increased resistance to existing electronic warfare systems and allows successful missile launches even on moonless nights, when there is no additional natural target illumination, hitting the target with an error of plus or minus two meters.

No other tactical system in the world can solve such a problem, except for the Iskander. In addition, optical systems do not require signals from space radio navigation systems, which in crisis situations can be turned off or disabled by radio interference. Integrating 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. The homing head can also be used on ballistic and cruise missiles of various classes and types.

The missile can be equipped with various warheads (10 types in total), including:

a cluster warhead with fragmentation warheads for non-contact detonation;
cluster warhead with cumulative fragmentation warheads;
cluster warhead with self-aiming combat elements;
cluster warhead with volumetric detonating action;
high-explosive fragmentation warhead (HFW);
high-explosive incendiary warhead;
penetrating warhead (PBC).

The cluster warhead ensures deployment at an altitude of 0.9-1.4 km with further separation and stabilization of the combat elements. The combat elements are equipped with radio sensors; the combat elements are detonated at a height of 6-10 m above the target.

Thanks to the implementation of terminal control and guidance methods, control along the entire flight path, a wide range of powerful combat units and the integration of onboard control systems with various correction and homing systems, as well as the high probability of completing a combat mission in conditions of active enemy counteraction, typical targets are hit by the launch of only 1- 2 Iskander-E missiles, which is equivalent in effectiveness to the use of nuclear weapons.

Self-propelled launcher 9P78-1 (SPU) RK 9K720 "Iskander-M"

The fully autonomous SPU is placed on an 8x8 all-terrain wheeled chassis (MZKT-7930) and is designed for storing and transporting missiles, preparing for launch and launching within the firing sector ±90° relative to the direction of entry of the SPU. The SPU provides: automatic determination of its coordinates, data exchange with all control levels, combat duty and preparation for launch with the missile in a horizontal position, single and salvo missile launches, storage and testing of missiles. The most important feature of the launcher was the placement on it not of one (as in Tochka and Oka), but of two missiles.

The time the launcher spends at the launch position is minimal and is up to 20 minutes, while the interval between the launches of the 1st and 2nd missiles is no more than one minute. Missile launches do not require launch positions that are specially prepared in terms of engineering and geodesy, which can lead to their discovery by the enemy. Launches can be carried out from the so-called “ready from the march”, i.e. the launcher drives onto any site (except for swampy areas and shifting sands) and its crew prepares and launches the rocket in an automated cycle, without leaving the cabin. After which the launcher moves to the reloading point and, after loading the missiles, is ready to launch a second missile strike from any launch position.

Transport-loading vehicle 9T250-1 (TZM) RK 9K720 "Iskander-M"

The TZM is also located on the MZKT-7930 chassis and is equipped with a jib crane. Full combat weight - 40,000 kg, TZM crew - 2 people.

Command and staff vehicle 9S552 (KShM) of the Iskander missile system

The automated control system is built on the basis of a command and staff vehicle, unified for all levels of management, built on a KAMAZ family chassis. Setting to a certain management level (brigade, division, starting battery) is carried out programmatically during operation. To ensure information exchange, the launcher houses combat control and communications equipment. Information exchange can be carried out both through open and closed communication channels.

Iskander is integrated with various reconnaissance and control systems. Information about the target is transmitted from a satellite, reconnaissance aircraft or unmanned aerial vehicle (type "Flight-D") to the information preparation point (PPI). It calculates the flight mission for the missile and prepares reference information for missiles with OGSN. This information is then transmitted via radio channels to the command post 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.

It is placed on the chassis of the Kamaz family and is intended for routine checks of on-board equipment of missiles placed on TZM (as well as in containers), checks of instruments included in group sets of spare parts for complex elements and routine repair of missiles by the MTO crew. Vehicle weight - 13500 kg, deployment time - 20 minutes, time of the automated cycle of routine check of the rocket's on-board equipment - 18 minutes, crew - 2 people.

Life support vehicle for the Iskander missile system

Designed to accommodate combat crews (up to 8 people) for rest and food.

Tactical and technical characteristics of the Iskander complex (9K720)

Circular probable deviation.........5-7 m (Iskander-M using a missile with a correlation seeker), up to 2 meters.
Launch mass of the rocket...................3,800 kg
Weight of the warhead......480 kg
Length......7.2 m
Diameter......920 mm
Rocket speed after the initial part of the trajectory...........2 100 m/s
Maximum trajectory altitude......50 km.
Minimum target engagement range.........50 km
Maximum target engagement range......500 km Iskander-K (2000 km with the R-500 cruise missile); 280 km Iskander-E (export)
Time before launch of the first rocket...................4-16 minutes
Interval between launches............1 minute (for 9P78 launcher with two missiles)

Photo of the Iskander missile system

Transfer of a brigade set of Iskander-M missile systems to the 112th Missile Brigade.
July 8, 2014 - at the Kaspustin Yar training ground

DATA FOR 2017 (standard update, v.2)

9K715 Iskander complex, 9M723 missile - SS-X-26 STONE

Complex 9K720 "Iskander-M", missile 9M723-1 - SS-26 STONE-A
Complex 9K720E "Iskander-E", missile 9M723E - SS-26 STONE-B
Complex 9K720 "Iskander-M", missile 9M728 / R-500 ("Iskander-K") - SS-26 STONE-S

Operational-tactical missile system / multi-purpose modular missile system of the ground forces. The development of the complex was carried out using developments in the complexes " ", " ", " " and " ". It is also likely that the complex was created taking into account the research work " " on the study of the concept of a modular-type multifunctional missile system for the ground forces. The origins of the development of the complex date back to the Iskander research work, carried out since 1978. On the topic of research, the possibility of placing two OTR class OTR 9M79 " " on the SPU of a similar SPU of the 9K714 "Oka" complex was studied. The main goal is to create an OTR with a range of up to 400 km to replace the complex with the 8K14 missile with increased combat performance, as well as to ensure guaranteed destruction of particularly important targets with two missiles. According to unconfirmed reports, the Iskander research project was stopped in the first half of the 1980s at the stage of testing the targeting system and missile control systems.

The development of the Iskander complex in its original form began at the Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau (Kolomna, hereinafter - KBM) on an initiative basis by order of the chief designer S.P. Nepobedimy and under his leadership in 1987. KBM's competitor in the development of the new generation OTR was Tula The Instrument Design Bureau under the leadership of A.G. Shipunov proposed its own. 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").

Self-propelled launcher 9P78-1 of the 9K720 Iskander-M missile system with a 9M723 missile during exercises of the missile brigade in Primorye, November 14-18, 2016 (http://smitsmitty.livejournal.com/).

The development of prototypes of self-propelled guns was carried out by the Titan Central Design Bureau. The prototype of the two-missile SPU Br-1555-1 was developed by the Titan Design Bureau on the basis of the BAZ-69501 chassis by 1991. At site 4C ("4-old") of the Strategic Missile Forces Kapustin Yar training ground (4th GCMP) in the summer of 1991 from installation Several throw-in launches were carried out (including two-missile salvo launches). In most sources, the Br-1555-1 SPU appears as a “mock-up test site sample” of the launcher. The development of SPU on the BAZ-69501 chassis has not been completed. Also, in some sources the index “9P81” has been replicated, but whether it has a real relation to the Iskander / Iskander-M complexes or is a fiction (error) has not been established.

In 1990-1992 CDB "Titan" developed and manufactured the first prototype of the SPU 9P76 on the BAZ-6954 chassis. Presumably, the development of a new type of SPU on the new BAZ chassis was carried out earlier in parallel with the development of the Br-1555-1 SPU. The first launch from the new SPU was carried out in the summer of 1992. Further, in 1992, tests were continued with a second launch. During 1993, 5 launches were carried out from SPU 9P76 No. 1. In 1994-1997 prototypes of the 9M723 missile, presumably with a cassette warhead, were tested from the SPU. In total, more than 10 launches were made.

Site No. 231 of the Kapustin Yar test site where the Iskander missile system was tested (https://www.bing.com, 2016).

Testing of Iskander missiles with SPU 9P76, Kapustin Yar test site (TV program "Strike Force").

For testing, 2 single-missile SPU 9P76 (samples No. 1 and No. 2) were manufactured on the BAZ-6954 chassis and 2 transport vehicles 9T246, probably on the same chassis. The tests were carried out at the same site 4C of the 4th State Medical Center Kapustin Yar. The second copy of the SPU 9P76 was used to test the rocket launcher and was used for launches at the Kapustin Yar test site a limited number of times. Thus, tests of the first versions of the Iskander complex were carried out from 1991 to 1997. Moreover, already on October 25, 1995, the completion of tests of the Iskander missile system was announced at Krasnaya Zvezda.

KBM specialists and testers are working at the landing site of the Iskander missile. Second from left is Deputy Head of the Scientific and Technical Department of KBM I.N. Kotkov. Kapustin Yar training ground, 1990s - early 2000s (processed).

After the first launches of Iskander OTR prototypes, a decision was made to change the approach to the concept of using the complex towards a “multi-purpose modular missile system of the ground forces” with different types of missiles. In 1993, the technical specifications for the Iskander-M complex were approved. Work on the complex was continued by a team of KBM specialists under the leadership of the chief designer of the department Oleg Mamalyga. In 1995, the first experimental two-missile SPU 9P78 was manufactured on the MZKT-7930 chassis (9P78 version 1, see figure below). Tests of the complex with the experimental SPU 9P78 version 1 have been carried out at the Kapustin Yar test site since 1995:
- since 1995, throwing and autonomous range tests have been carried out, an experiment was conducted with the suspension of a cruise missile;
- field testing of the complex began in 1997;
- in 1999, at the 71st RV site of the Kapustin Yar test site, State tests of the Iskander-M complex began, which were completed with 9M723 ballistic missiles with a new version of the cluster warhead in August 2004 (probably 9M723K5 or its prototype).

In total, during tests with SPU 9P78, 9P78-1 No. 1 and No. 2, 13 launches of 9M723 missiles were carried out. As of April 2004, 10 launches were carried out as part of state tests, and later 3 more launches were made. State tests were successfully completed in 2004 ().

Development of the 9M728 cruise missile As one of the types of combat equipment for the missile system, the Novator Design Bureau (Ekaterinburg) was carried out under the general leadership of P.I. Kamnev. In 2007 Based on the results of successful launches of 9M728 cruise missiles (Iskander R&D), a decision was made to move in 2008 to the final stage of testing the Iskander-M complex in the final expanded composition of fire weapons ().

Serial production and adoption. Production of the MZKT-7930 chassis was started by the MZKT plant (Minsk) in 1998. State tests of the basic version of the Iskander complex were supposed to be completed in 2000, but began at the 71st site of the RV NE of the Kapustin Yar training ground in 2001. and were completed only in August 2004 (as of April 2004, 10 launches were carried out as part of state tests, later at least 5-6 more).

The 9K720 Iskander-M complex was put into service in a truncated composition in 2004 and in 2005 the complex began to enter combat units (630th ORDN of the 60th Combat Use Center, Kapustin Yar). In 2006, the 9K720 Iskander-M complex (Previously it was believed that this name was purely a media invention, but in the second half of 2009 we established the reliability of the name based on documents on open government contracts)fully adopted by the Russian Armed Forces with ballistic missiles of the 9M723 type(source - plate to SPU 9P76 of the complex in the open part of the museum of the Kapustin Yar test site) . Planned (2008) start of mass production - 2010. Completion of the deployment of the army group according to the plan (2008-2009) - 2015. Missiles are produced at the Votkinsk plant, self-propelled launchers and heavy equipment - PO "Barricades" (g .Volgograd, in series since 2006, production capabilities for 2008 - 12 complexes per year), chassis - Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant (Minsk, Belarus). "Iskander-E" is an export version of the complex with a reduced range and conventional warheads. It is likely that the original design of the Iskander missile system envisaged the use of several types of ballistic missiles. The formation of the first military missile brigade was completed in 2010 ().

According to plans announced at the beginning of 2011, during the implementation of the state armaments program for 2011-2020. (adopted on December 31, 2010) it is planned to supply 10 missile brigades of Iskander-M complexes to the armed forces. On August 1, 2011, Deputy Minister of Defense of Russia D. Bulgakov stated that it is planned to adopt a total of 120 Iskander complexes (i.e. 12 SPU per brigade) into service with the Russian Armed Forces. In 2011, a contract was concluded between the Russian Ministry of Defense and NPK KBM for the supply of 10 brigade sets of Iskander-M complexes with ballistic and cruise missiles - each set includes 12 launchers, 12 transport-loading vehicles, 11 command-and-control vehicles. staff vehicles, 14 life support vehicles, one information preparation point, one routine maintenance vehicle, a set of training aids, a set of portable automated workstations, a set of arsenal equipment and a military supply of two types of missiles (). The delivery of the first such set was carried out in June 2013. The delivery of the second set is planned for the fall of 2013. Until 2018, the 2011 program can be completed at this rate. When handing over the first set on June 28, 2013, it was stated that the missile brigades are not ready to provide storage of the received complexes - there are no properly equipped heated and air-conditioned boxes. Storing equipment outside ensures equipment wear and tear of 50% per season. There and at the same time, information was made public that the combat use control and target designation system of the Iskander-M complexes had not been developed and not accepted for service ().

On February 10, 2014, the media reported that a new type of missile was being created for the Iskander-M missile system ().

Hypothetical 2009-2010 - In our opinion, the Iskander complex went through three stages in the process of creation:

1) Research and development project "Iskander"- the first version of the 9M723 missile and complex - was studied in the OTR configuration of the ground forces as part of preliminary research based on the ideas contained in the Uran, Oka and Tochka projects, which were carried out in the mid-1980s or even earlier. There is evidence that the development of some components of the missile control system and complex within the framework of the Iskander project was carried out until 1986 at SKB-626 (now NPO Automation named after Academician N.A. Semikhatov, Miass). The complex was supposedly intended to replace the 9K72 SCUD-B complexes in the USSR Armed Forces according to the principle - 1 Iskander SPU with 2 missiles instead of a battery of 9K72 complexes, and taking into account high accuracy - instead of a 9K72 division. Perhaps it was intended to use a two-missile non-floating SPU similar in design to the SPU of the Oka-U complex on a BAZ chassis. The missile and complex were supposed to implement the following technological solutions: implementation of topographical reference at any point along the route, receiving target designation from external sources of information in real time, retargeting the missile after launch, using correlation seekers at the final stage of the trajectory, minimal radar signature of the missile and a set of measures for overcoming a potential missile defense system, entering data into the missile control system inside the SPU before transferring the missile to the launch position (first implemented by 1972 on the Temp-2S ICBM), controlling the missile throughout the entire flight path.

2) 9K715 "Iskander" / OKR "Tender"- second version of the rocket 9M723 and complex - was created starting in 1987 as a replacement for OTR Oka and 9K72 SCUD-B. Tests began in 1991 at the Kapustin Yar test site, the weight of the warhead was reduced. Tests were carried out using test site PU, SPU 9P81 and 9P78. On the basis of this version of the rocket, the initial version of the Iskander-E complex was created and is being marketed, tests of which were carried out approximately in 1995-2001. (as part of missile testing 9M723 ). According to fragmentary data and an interview with chief designer O.I. Mamalyga (2004), Iskander-E carries 1 missile on the SPU.

3) 9K720 "Iskander-M"- the third option is a modular multifunctional complex created using the results of the Volna research project. Fire weapons:
- basic model - "Iskander-M" with 9M723 missile (" 9M723 third option") - the characteristics of the rocket have been noticeably changed - a more modern mixed fuel and a control system for both the rocket and the complex, built on a new element base, are used.
- export version of the Iskander-E with the 9M723 missile.
- development - "Iskander-K" with a cruise missile in the TPK. The SPU 9P78-1 is used with the SPU 1 TPK mounted on one boom. testing started in May 2007
This system is intended only for the Russian Armed Forces. Tests were carried out in 2001-2005. Based on the universal two-missile SPU 9P78-1.

P.S. Based on the concept of a modular multifunctional complex, the launch units of the Iskander-M complex can use different fire weapons - cruise missiles (Iskander-K), including simultaneously (one arrow is a ballistic missile, the other is a cruise missile), operational-tactical missiles increased range, etc. A chassis based on the MZKT-7930 "Astrologer" made according to this concept by replacing modules can be quickly rebuilt for SPU of other types of fire weapons.

Launcher:

- experimental wheeled SPU Br-1555-1 /polygon prototype launcher(1991) - the development of prototypes of self-propelled units was carried out by the Titan Central Design Bureau. The prototype of the two-missile SPU Br-1555-1 was developed by the Titan Design Bureau on the basis of the BAZ-69501 chassis by 1991. At site 4C ("4-old") of the Strategic Missile Forces Kapustin Yar training ground (4th GCMP) in the summer of 1991 from installation Several throw-in launches were carried out (including two-missile salvo launches). In most sources, the Br-1555-1 SPU appears as a “mock-up test site sample” of the launcher. The development of the SPU on the BAZ-69501 chassis was not completed. Until 2011, we believed that there was a separate test site mock-up launcher, but, as it turned out, this was not true.

Experimental two-missile self-propelled launcher Br-1555-1 of the Iskander complex. Probably, the SPU is equipped with a missile version for throw-out launches. Kapustin Yar training ground, 1991 (photo from the archive of the user "Random", published on June 30, 2011).

The prototype of the SPU 9P76 chassis is the BAZ-69501 chassis (Vasiliev V. To the 40th anniversary of the Bryansk Automobile Plant. // Equipment and weapons. No. 2 / 1999).

During the first stage of testing at the Kapustin Yar test site, the launch of the complex’s missiles and the operation of launch systems were tested from this launcher. The peculiarity of the launch of the Iskander missile is the use of a lifting boom of the launcher and detachable missile mounting bands. After the lower ring of the bandage is released from the boom locks and the main plug connector is uncoupled, a command is issued to activate the squibs holding the bandages (two squibs for each bandage). The bandages are shot off, the holes for the mounting pins in the rocket body are closed with spring-loaded covers - in order to reduce the EPR of the rocket.

In the photograph of the launch of the Iskander missile, a cloud is clearly visible that arose as a result of the shooting of the upper yoke clip (Missile and artillery weapons. Catalog "Weapons of Russia". M., Military Parade, 2004).

Shooting the upper yoke clip during the launch of a 9M723K5 rocket, Kapustin Yar test site, 08/22/2011 (photo by Vadim Savitsky, http://twower.livejournal.com).

- SPU 9P81- the index “9P81” has been replicated in some sources, but whether it has a real relation to the Iskander / Iskander-M complexes or is a fiction (error) has not been established.

- experimental wheeled SPU 9P76 on the BAZ-6954 chassis - The SPU was designed by the Titan Design Bureau (design bureau of the Barrikady plant), the first prototype 9P76 was manufactured in 1992. Presumably, the development of a new type of SPU on the new BAZ chassis was previously carried out in parallel with the development of the Br-1555-1 SPU. The SPU chassis was developed within the framework of the research project "Facet" of the Bryansk Automobile Plant Design Bureau on the basis of the BAZ-69501 chassis in 1990-1992, the head of the design bureau is V.B. Vyushkin, the chief designer of the chassis is V.P. Trusov (since 1997 - Yu.A. Shpak). The SPU is not floating, it carries one missile; in the front part of the body with the rocket there is a gas turbine electric generator that provides power to the SPU.

The first launch from the new SPU was carried out in the summer of 1992. Further, in 1992, tests were continued with a second launch. During 1993, 5 launches were carried out from SPU 9P76 No. 1. In 1994-1997 prototypes of the 9M723 missile, presumably with a cassette warhead, were tested from the SPU. In total, more than 10 launches were made. For testing, a total of 2 single-missile SPU 9P76 (samples No. 1 and No. 2) were manufactured on the BAZ-6954 chassis and 2 transport vehicles 9T246, probably on the same chassis. The tests were carried out at site 4C of the 4th State Medical Center Kapustin Yar. The second copy of the SPU 9P76 was used to test the rocket launcher and was used for launches at the Kapustin Yar test site a limited number of times.

TTX SPU 9P76:
Engines - 2 x diesel KamAZ-740 with a power of 210 hp each, each engine runs on its own side

Wheel formula - 8 x 8

Length - 11.3 m

Width - 3.08 m

Height - 3.05 m

Ground clearance - 470 mm

Total weight - 36000 kg

Curb weight - 18500 kg

Load capacity - 17100 kg

Highway speed - 60 km/h

Fuel range - 682 km

Calculation - 4 people

Experimental self-propelled launcher 9P76 of the Iskander complex, Kapustin Yar training ground, 1992-1996. (photo from the archive of the user "Random", published on June 30, 2011).

Experimental SPU 9P76 on the BAZ-6954 chassis at the Kapustin Yar training ground (TV show “Serving Russia!”, TV channel “Zvezda”, 12/17/2006)

Drawing of an experimental SPU 9P76 on a BAZ-6954 chassis, a lifting boom from the Oka complex is mistakenly drawn (probably the drawing was made on the basis of TV material from the Zvezda TV channel, http://www.military.cz).

Experimental self-propelled launcher 9P76 of the Iskander complex on the BAZ-6954 chassis, open museum of equipment at the Kapustin Yar training ground, summer 2016 (photo from the archive of the user "Sluchany", published 10/21/2016).

- wheeled SPU 9P78- after changing the concept of the Iskander complex, starting from 1993, work has been underway to redesign the SPU on the MZKT-7930 chassis for two launching booms with different types of combat load (OTR, KR). In 1995, a new SPU 9P78 was manufactured. Launches from it began in the same 1995. Later, SPU 9P78 was converted into SPU 9P78-1 - the body was modernized. Probably the reason for the modernization was the refusal to place some types of combat load on the complex.

- wheeled SPU 9P78-1(apparently not earlier than 1994) - MZKT-79301 chassis (two missiles on SPU with separate lifting booms). In our opinion, this is a prototype or the first series of the Iskander SPU on the MZKT chassis, the visible differences from the 9P78-1 are insignificant. It is possible that the SPU 9P78 can only launch 9M723 ballistic missiles. The installation was designed by the Titan Central Design Bureau (design bureau of the Barrikady plant). The MZKT-7930 "Astrologer" chassis was developed by SKB-1 of the Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant in 1990 (prototype). Serial production of the chassis began in 1998. Chassis tests were carried out at the Kapustin Yar test site, test tracks of the NIIIAT RF Ministry of Defense and public roads. After a 30,000-mile run, the tractor was tested in a climate chamber at a temperature of -50°C, then in a wind tunnel, where resistance to shock waves was assessed.

SPU 9P78-1 version 1 with a 9M723 missile, in the pre-launch position the left of the two missiles, late 1990s - early 2000s (http://milparade.com, according to RIA Novosti, photo taken 11/07/2008 , which is not true).

- universal wheeled SPU 9P78-1 / 9P78-1E(serial modification, appearance - 2001-2005) on the MZKT-7930 chassis (apparently the MZKT-79305 model) "Astrologer" (two missiles on the SPU with separate lifting booms - ballistic or winged or a combination of ballistic and winged). The TZM 9T250 on the MZKT-79305 chassis carries two missiles and is equipped with a jib crane. The unit was designed by the Central Design Bureau "Titan" (design bureau of the "Barricades" plant) and produced by the "Barricades" Production Association (Volgograd) on the chassis of the Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant (Minsk, Belarus). Serial production of SPU and TZM began in 2006, the production capabilities of the Barrikady PA, according to data for 2008, are 12 complexes per year. As of 2014 - 2 brigade sets per year.

The complex's vehicles are air transportable by An-124 class aircraft. In the front part of the body with missiles there is a gas turbine electric generator, which is part of the power and air conditioning unit (controlled from the driver's remote control). Presumably, a laser sighting optical system is placed in the body for placing the GPS missile in the launch plane and entering flight mission numbers into the on-board computer before launching in a horizontal position. Perhaps the SPU 9P78-1 differs from the 9P78 in that it can use both old and new types of missiles (see the stages of development of the complex above), and also, probably, the SPU 9P78-1 is universal and is used as part of the Iskander complexes -M" and "Iskander-K".

Engine - diesel YaMZ-846 with a power of 500 hp, manual gearbox YaMZ-202.04 (9/2) with clutch YaMZ-151-10, MZKT-79306 - diesel Deutz BF8M105C with a power of 544 hp. with 5-speed hydromechanical transmission Allison HD4560P.

Wheel formula - 8 x 8 (the first two axles are rotary)

Length - approx. 13070 mm
Width - 3070 mm
Height - approx. 3290 mm
Ground clearance - 400 mm
Tires - R25 with adjustable pressure

Gross weight - 40000-43200 kg (up to 45000 kg on the chassis)

Chassis curb weight - 21000 kg

Load capacity:

MZKT-79301 - 22200 kg

MZKT-79305 - 25000 kg
- MZKT-79306 - 24000 kg
Permissible axial mass (MZKT-79306):
- front axles - 21800 kg
- rear axles - 23200 kg

Highway speed - 70 km/h
Speed on dirt road - 40 km/h
Cross-country speed - 20 km/h
Fording depth - 1.4 m

Fuel range - 1000 km

Calculation - 3 people (2 people TZM)
Missile launch sector - 180 degrees.

Chassis MZKT-79306 is a close analogue of MZKT-79305 (Technique that knows no barriers. Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant. Booklet, 2009).

SPU 9P78-1 version 2 of the 9K720 Iskander-M complex, rehearsal of the Victory Parade in Moscow, 04/26/2011. The last two photos are 05/03/2011 (photo - Vitaly Kuzmin, http://vitalykuzmin.net).

SPU of the operational-tactical complex "Iskander-M" / "Iskander-K" at the 231st site of the 4th GCM training ground of the Russian Ministry of Defense, 2010 (4 interspecific: the 21st century begins. 4 GCM of the Russian Ministry of Defense, 2011.

SPU 9P78-1 board No. 811, probably the 630th ORDN after the missile launch, Kapustin Yar test site, 08/22/2011 (photo by Vadim Savitsky, http://twower.livejournal.com).

Serial military SPU 9P78-1 of the Iskander-M complex. 26th Neman Red Banner Missile Brigade. 10.20.2011 (photo - Alexey Danichev, http://sputniknews.com).

SPU 9P78-1 with cruise missiles of the 9K720 Iskander-M missile system of the first production brigade set on the day of transfer of equipment to the 107th RBR. Kapustin Yar, 06/28/2013 (http://i-korotchenko.livejournal.com).

SPU 9P78-1 version 2 and TZM 9T250 of the 9K720 Iskander-M complex, rehearsal of the Victory Parade in Moscow, 05/03/2011 (photo - Andrey Kryuchenko, http://a-andreich.livejournal.com).

New SPU BAZ- in February 2007, at an off-site meeting of the military-industrial commission on the basis of NPO Almaz, the management of PA BAZ announced that on the basis of the Voshchina-1 chassis and/or on the basis of the developing promising Voshchina-2 chassis, a SPU would be created for complex "Iskander". No other information available.

Complex missiles.
Ballistic missile 9M723(the 9M728 cruise missile is described in a separate article - " " ):
Design single-stage missiles with an inseparable warhead. Much attention is paid to reducing the RCS - there are no protruding parts, holes and noticeable joints, the cable garrot is minimized as much as possible on the first versions of the rockets and is made in the form of a thin train on the surface of the rocket body on more modern series, the aerodynamic control surfaces are replaced with swept ones instead of lattice ones. A special heat-protective coating of the body is used, which can probably serve as a coating that reduces the ESR.

The 9M723-1 missile of the Iskander-M complex. Kubinka, Army 2015 forum, 06/17/2015 (photo - Sergey Karpukhin, Reuters).

The 9M723-1 missile of the Iskander-M complex. Kubinka, forum "Army 2016" (September 2016).

Projections of 9M723 missiles of the 9K720 Iskander-M complex (, 11/06/2016).

According to the scheme previously adopted for OTR complexes, the missile of the complex (for example, 9M723K5) includes a missile part (for example, 9M723) and a warhead (for example, 9N722K5).

According to information available in 2011, missile units 9M723 and 9M723-1 are mentioned.

A mock-up of the Iskander-E missile with the 9M723 missile part at the exhibition "Technologies in Mechanical Engineering - 2010", Moscow, 30.06 - 04.07.2010 (http://maks.sukhoi.ru).

Cable gargrot on the old model of the missile complex (on the left, probably 9M723) and on the new one (on the right, probably 9M723-1). Stills from the films "Strike Force".

Fragments of the design of the 9M723K5 rocket (probably). Stills from a report on the receipt of 9K720 Iskander-M systems by the 26th Missile Brigade in Luga, 10/21/2011 (NTV channel).

Training missile 9M723 during reloading from the TZM 9T250 of the 9K720 Iskander-M complex to the SPU 9P87-1. Publication no later than 2015 (photo - Dmitry Rogulin,).

Presumably, during group launches of 9K720 Iskander-M complexes during the Center-2011 exercises, missiles with a 9M723-1 missile unit were used, Kapustin Yar training ground, 09/22/2011 (http://www.mil.ru).

Ballistic missile 9M723 of the 9K720 Iskander-M missile system in a transport container. The photo was taken at the ceremony of handing over the first serial brigade set of equipment of the 107th RBR. Kapustin Yar, 06/28/2013 (http://i-korotchenko.livejournal.com).

The same moment - a frame from the TV channel "Zvezda" (http://www.mil.ru).

Containers 9YA293-E with missiles for the Iskander-E complexes of the Armenian armed forces (09/22/2016, footage from an Armenian television report).

Control and guidance system - The rocket's control system is autonomous inertial (developed by TsNIIAG, Moscow), the rocket is controlled by the control system throughout the entire flight. The control system is built on the basis of a gyro-stabilized platform (GSP) and a digital computer (analogue of DAVU OTR "Tochka"). When using missiles with a seeker, the on-board computer of the missile's inertial control system adjusts the trajectory according to the seeker data. Control is carried out using aerodynamic and gas-jet rudders and, probably, on the 9M723-1 rocket part gas-dynamically using shunting reusable solid propellant rocket engines or using a gas generator. The warhead is inseparable.

Deep modernization and experimental testing of the previously developed command gyroscopic device (a set of gyroscopic devices) for the Iskander / Iskander-M missiles was carried out by NPO Electromechanics (Miass). State tests were successfully completed in 2004. Serial production of gyroscopic devices is carried out there ( see - Annual report of JSC "NPO Electromechanics...", ).

Autocollimator (left) and automatic gyrocompass of the first SPU of the Iskander complex developed by the Arsenal Design Bureau (Kiev), footage from Ukrainian television.

The topographic reference system of the complex's launch unit can interact with space navigation systems such as NAVSTAR and GLONASS. Input of targeting data into missiles (alignment of the GPS in the launch plane and entry of flight mission numbers into the on-board computer) occurs automatically when the missiles are in a horizontal position inside the SPU, probably using an improved optical system for aligning the missile's GPS using a laser optical device (since the SPU does not have the typical light guides for lighting systems - see "Tochka" and "Oka"). Entering goal data takes little time and before the start, goal data can be adjusted based on information from an external source. With an interval of 1 minute, the complex can strike two missiles at two different targets. The flight trajectory is flat ("quasi-ballistic"), possibly with the ability to maneuver in some missile variants.

Automatic gyrocompass (AGC) supports in the central part of the SPU 9P78-1 ().

Probably wind sensors on SPU 9P78-1 board No. 811, apparently from the 630th ORDN. Kapustin Yar training ground, August 22, 2011 (photo by Vadim Savitsky, http://twower.livejournal.com).

The GLONASS system equipment on the SPU type 9P78-1 is represented by a portable receiver-indicator 14Ts821 "Grot-V" ("portable"). The receiver indicator antenna is located on the roof of the SPU cabin. The product has been developed and mass-produced by the Research Institute of KP since 2001.

Probably the on-board digital computer (DAVU) of the Iskander missiles ( http://youtube.com)

Command-gyroscopic device (gyro-stabilized platform), automation unit and on-board computer (DAVU) on 9M723 missiles of the Iskander complex. Photo from the area of the Georgian-Ossetian conflict (August 2008) and a still from the films of the “Strike Force” series ( http://youtube.com)

Porthole of the optical aiming system of the gyroscopic devices of the 9M723 missile (http://militaryphotos.net).

Probably the optical aiming system of the missile's gyroscopic devices on the SPU 9P78 (frame from the promotional film of the Central Design Bureau "Titan", http://youtube.com)

For comparison, systems similar in purpose are installed on the control systems of the Oka (left) and Tochka-U (right) complexes.

Internal structure of the Iskander-M complex equipped with the R-500 SPU 9P78-1 cruise missile, Kapustin Yar, 10/30/2015 (video footage from the Russian Ministry of Defense, http://mil.ru).

Presumably a standard theodolite for maintenance of the SPU targeting system at a firing range position. Sighting is carried out on the base reflector of the automatic gyrocompass and then, through a second portable theodolite, in several steps the reference point is snapped and the azimuth of the base launch direction is checked. The photo shows the SPU of the 9K720 Iskander-M complex during launches to test a new type of combat equipment, Kapustin Yar training ground, 10/11/2011 (Zvezda TV channel).

In addition to missiles with an inertial control system, missiles with seekers of two types can also be used, which are activated at the final stage of flight (according to our assessment, they are not in service as of 2009, they are probably being tested starting in 2004 or later). The seeker at the final section of the trajectory corrects the operation of the inertial control system of the rocket (estimated, cannot be used on the Iskander-E):

- radar correlation seeker- developed by TsNIIAG (Moscow) in the late 1980s on the topic “Volga”, the missile is aimed by comparing a digital map of the area in the target area and radar seeker data;

- optical correlation seeker 9E436 - developed by TsNIIAG (Moscow), the missile is aimed at a reference image of the target, similar to the seeker of the 8K14-1F missile. The GOS was presented for the first time at the Eurosatory-2004 exhibition.
GOS mass - 20 kg
Flight task entry time - no more than 5 minutes
KVO - up to 20 m

Optical seeker 9E436 for OTR "Iskander" at the TsNIIAG stand at the MVSV-2004 exhibition

- radar active seeker 9B918 - developed and produced by NPP "Radar MMS" as of 2009. In 2009, serial production of 22 primary information processing units for the seeker 9B918 of 9M723-1F missiles is planned in 2010-2011.

Option 1 (possibly 9N722K1 or another) - cassette warhead - R&D - Design Bureau of the Votkinsk Machine-Building Plant. Weight 480 kg, 54 combat elements, warhead deployment height - 900-1400 m, combat element activation height - 6-10 m, the use of this type of warhead with an optical or radar correlation seeker is assessed by us as unlikely.
Types of combat elements:

1. fragmentation non-contact

2. cumulative fragmentation

3. self-aiming

4. volumetric detonating

Option 2 (possibly 9N722K1 or another) - cassette warhead with 45 9N730 combat elements developed and produced by GosNIIMash (Dzerzhinsk) with a central explosive charge (CRZ) 9N731. As of 2008, it is in serial production in the experimental workshop 4510 of GosNIIMash (production of 16 sets of equipment per year). In 2009, the labor intensity of manufacturing the 9N730 combat element was 16.23 standard hours, the CRZ - 30 standard hours. Proximity fuses 9E156 "Umbrella" for combat elements of cassette warheads were developed by the Research Institute of Electronic Devices (Novosibirsk,).

- Rocket 9M723-1F / 9M723-1FE- a missile with a radar seeker 9B918 developed and produced by NPP Radar MMS. Developed as of 2009

- Complex 9K720E "Iskander-E", missile 9M720E / 9M723E- export modification of the complex with SPU 9P78-1E,

- Complex "Iskander-MKR"- During the IMDS-2005 exhibition, it was announced that a sea-based missile would be created on the basis of the Iskander OTR.

- Rocket 9M723, version 2016- in September-October 2016, a rocket was launched at the Kaputsin Yar test site, the footage of which was posted on Youtube in October 2016. The rocket in appearance differs from the previously known versions of the 9M723 rocket.

Missile type 9M723 version 2016 (video footage from Youtube).

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 not 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.”

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