Iskander (9K720) is a 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 especially important small-sized and area targets in the depth of the operational formation of enemy troops.
OTRK "Iskander" (9K720) was created as a result of joint work of a group of research institutes, design bureaus and factories under the leadership of the Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering (KBM Kolomna), known as the creator of the missile systems "Tochka", "Oka". The launcher was developed by the Central Design Bureau "Titan" (Volgograd), the homing system was developed by the Central Research Institute of Automation and Hydraulics (Moscow).
Under the conditions of the 1987 INF Treaty and the renunciation of the use of nuclear weapons in the theater 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 over 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 systems and final guidance;
- the possibility of integration with global satellite navigation systems (GSSN - Glonass, NAVSTAR);
- the possibility of hitting heavily protected targets;
- increase in fire performance;
- the ability to effectively overcome the action of air defense and missile defense systems;
— the possibility of hitting moving targets.
To meet the above requirements, an export version of the OTRK 9K720 was created, which received the designation "Iskander-E." "Iskander-E" incorporated the best scientific, technical and design achievements in the field of operational-tactical missile systems and, based on the totality of implemented technical solutions, high combat effectiveness is a weapon of a completely new generation, surpassing in its tactical and technical characteristics the existing RK 9K72 Elbrus, Tochka-U, Lance, ATASMS, Pluton, etc.
The main features of the RK 9K720 "Iskander":
- high-precision and effective destruction of various types of targets;
- the possibility of covert training, combat duty and effective missile strikes;
- automatic calculation and input of the flight mission of missiles by means of the launcher;
- high probability of accomplishing a combat mission in the face of active opposition from the enemy;
- high probability of failure-free functioning of the rocket in preparation for launch, as well as in flight;
- high tactical maneuverability due to the high cross-country ability 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 dissemination of intelligence information to the relevant command and control levels;
- long service life and ease of use.
Iskander-E, in terms of its tactical and technical characteristics, fully complies with the position of the Control Regime for the Non-Proliferation of Missile Technologies. This is a “deterrence weapon” in local conflicts, and for countries with limited living space, a strategic weapon. The structure of the complex, its control system, automated combat control and information support make it possible to quickly respond to new requirements without significant refinement of its combat means and, as a result, guarantee it a long life cycle.
For the armament of the Russian army, a version of the Iskander-M missile system with an increased flight range (more than 450 km) was developed, as well as the Iskander-K, equipped with a high-precision R-500 cruise missile (range up to 2600 km) of the Caliber system developed by the Yekaterinburg OJSC OKB Novator. The complex was successfully tested in 2007. at the Kapustin Yar training ground.
In 2007, the Iskander-M complexes (four combat vehicles) were equipped with a training division in Kapustin Yar, which took part in the war with Georgia in August 2008.
In the west, the complex was designated SS-26.
The complex "Iskander" includes:
- rocket 9M723;
- self-propelled launcher 9P78 (SPU);
- transport-loading vehicle 9T250 (TZM);
- command and staff vehicle 9S552 (KShM);
- mobile information preparation station 9S920 (PPI);
- machine regulations and maintenance (MRTO);
- life support machine;
- sets of arsenal and training equipment.
Rocket 9M723 complex "Iskander"
Solid propellant, single-stage with a warhead that cannot be separated in flight. The rocket is controlled throughout the flight path using aerodynamic and gas-dynamic rudders. The flight path of 9M723 is not ballistic, but controlled. The rocket is constantly changing the plane of the trajectory. It maneuvers especially actively in the area of its acceleration and approach to the target - with an overload from 20 to 30g. In order to intercept a 9M723 missile, an anti-missile must move along a trajectory with an overload two or three times higher, and this is practically impossible. Most of the flight trajectory of a missile made using the 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 effect of 'invisibility' is achieved through a combination of design features and processing of the rocket with special coatings.
The rocket is launched directly at the target using an inertial control system, and then it is captured by an autonomous correlation-extreme optical homing head (see photo). The principle of operation of the OTR 9M723 homing system is that the optical equipment forms an image of the terrain in the target area, which is compared by the on-board computer with the standard introduced during the preparation of the rocket for launch. The optical head has increased resistance to existing electronic warfare equipment 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 tactical system in the world can solve such a problem, except for the Iskander. In addition, optical systems do not need signals from space radio navigation systems, which in crisis cases can be turned off or disabled by radio interference. Integration of inertial control with satellite navigation equipment and optical seeker allows you to create a missile that hits a given target in almost any conceivable 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:
- cluster warhead with fragmentation submunitions of non-contact detonation;
- cluster warhead with cumulative fragmentation submunitions;
- cluster warhead with self-aiming submunitions;
- cluster warhead volumetric detonating action;
- high-explosive fragmentation warhead (OFBCH);
- high-explosive incendiary warhead;
- penetrating warhead (PrBCh).
The cassette warhead provides 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 undermining of the combat elements is carried out at a height of 6-10 m above the target.
Thanks to the implementation of terminal control and guidance methods, control over the entire flight path, a wide range of powerful warheads and the integration of on-board control systems with various correction and homing systems, as well as a high probability of performing a combat mission in conditions of active enemy opposition, typical targets are hit by launching just 1- 2 Iskander-E missiles, which is equivalent in efficiency to the use of a nuclear weapon.
Self-propelled launcher 9P78-1 (SPU) RK 9K720 "Iskander-M"
The fully autonomous SPU is placed on an 8x8 off-road 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 SPU arrival direction. The SPU provides: automatic determination of its coordinates, data exchange with all command and control units, combat duty and preparation for launch with the missile in a horizontal position, single and salvo launches of missiles, storage and testing of missiles. The most important feature of the launcher was the placement on it of not one (as in Tochka and Oka), but two missiles.
The time spent by the launcher at the launch position is minimal and is up to 20 minutes, while the interval between launches of the 1st and 2nd missiles is not more than one minute. Missile launches do not require launching positions specially prepared in engineering and topographic and geodetic terms, which can lead to their disclosure by the enemy. Launches can be carried out from the so-called "readiness from the march", i.e. the launcher drives into any site (except for swampy terrain and loose sands) and its calculation in an automated cycle, without leaving the cockpit, prepares and launches the rocket. After that, the launcher moves to the reloading point and, after loading the missiles, is ready to deliver a second missile strike from any starting position.
Transport-loading vehicle 9T250-1 (TZM) RK 9K720 "Iskander-M"
TZM is also placed on the MZKT-7930 chassis and is equipped with a jib crane. Full combat weight - 40000kg, calculation of TZM - 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 control vehicle unified for all levels of control, made on the chassis of the KAMAZ family. Adjustment to a certain level of control (brigade, division, starting battery) is carried out programmatically during operation. To ensure information exchange, the launcher is equipped with combat control and communications equipment. Information exchange can be carried out both through open and closed communication channels.
Iskander is integrated with various intelligence and control systems. Information about the target is transmitted from a satellite, a reconnaissance aircraft or an unmanned aerial vehicle (of the Reis-D type) to an information preparation point (IPP). It calculates the flight mission for the missile and prepares reference information for missiles with OGSN. Then this information is transmitted via radio channels to the command and staff vehicles (KShM) of the battalion commanders and batteries, and from there to the launchers. Commands for launching missiles can be formed both in the KShM and come from the command posts 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 devices that are part of group sets of spare parts and accessories for the elements of the complex and current repairs of missiles by the forces of the MRTO calculation. The mass of the vehicle is 13500 kg, the deployment time is 20 minutes, the time of the automated routine check of the rocket's onboard equipment is 18 minutes, the calculation is 2 people.
Life support vehicle of the Iskander missile system
Designed to accommodate combat crews (up to 8 people) for recreation and meals.
Tactical and technical characteristics of the complex "Iskander" (9K720)
Circular probable deviation……….5-7 m (“Iskander-M” using a missile with a correlation seeker), up to 2 meters.
Launch weight of the rocket………………..3 800 kg
Warhead weight………………..480 kg
Length………………..7.2 m
Diameter………………..920 mm
Rocket speed after the initial section of the trajectory………..2 100 m/s
The maximum height of the trajectory………………..50 km.
Minimum target engagement range………..50 km
Maximum target engagement range………500 km Iskander-K (2000 km with R-500 cruise missile); 280 km Iskander-E (export)
Time to launch 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 the brigade set of Iskander-M missile systems to the 112th missile brigade.
July 08, 2014 - at the Kaspustin Yar training ground
This is interesting
OTRK "Iskander-M" / Photo: Press service of the RF Ministry of Defense
The operational-tactical missile system (OTRK) "Iskander-M" received a new aeroballistic missile.
“Now the Iskander-M OTRK can be equipped with five types of aeroballistic missiles and one cruise missile”
This was announced to TASS by Valery Kashin, general designer of the research and production corporation "Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering" (part of the holding "High-precision complexes" of the state corporation "Rostec").
"All these years, the development and improvement of the weapons of the Iskander-M missile system has been going on. In particular, a new aeroballistic missile has been created, which successfully passed interdepartmental tests in December," he said.
Valery Kashin / Photo: Rostec
The interlocutor of the agency explained that now the Iskander-M OTRK can be equipped with five types of aeroballistic missiles and one cruise missile.
About the complex
The 9K720 Iskander-M operational-tactical missile system was developed by KBM in the 1990s and put into service in 2006. Produced to replace the obsolete complexes 9K79 "Tochka" (9K79-1 "Tochka-U"). The range of missiles is 500 kilometers, for the export version - 280 kilometers.
The 9M723 aeroballistic missiles (which have various types of combat equipment, as well as various correlation homing heads) are controlled throughout the flight, which makes their trajectory unpredictable and makes it difficult to intercept by means of tactical missile defense. The complex can also use high-precision 9M728 (P-500) cruise missiles, Lenta.ru reported.
Technical reference
Guided tactical missile 9M723
Single-stage solid-propellant rocket 9M723, controlled at all stages of flight with a quasi-ballistic trajectory. The warhead of a cluster-type missile, which has 54 fragmentation elements with non-contact detonation, or also a cluster-type missile with volumetric detonating elements. The missiles are produced by OAO Votkinsky Zavod, the launcher is manufactured at the Barrikady Production Association.
Single-stage solid rocket 9M723 / Photo: fecusin.ucoz.ru
Schematic diagram of the 9M723 guided tactical missile / Photo: fun-space.ru
The design of the rocket is single-stage with an inseparable warhead. Much attention is paid to reducing the RCS - there are no protruding parts, holes and noticeable joints, the cable fairing is minimized to the maximum on the first versions of the missiles and is made in the form of a thin plume on the surface of the rocket body on more modern series, aerodynamic rudders instead of lattice ones are replaced by swept ones. A special heat-shielding coating of the case is used, which, probably, can act as an EPR-reducing coating.
Launch of the 9M723 guided tactical missile / Photo: pics2.pokazuha.ru
Rocket 9M723 - rear view / Photo: fun-space.ru
The task of creating similar equipment for the Iskander-E was handled 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 backlog in the development of homing heads.
As the main way to solve this problem, the combination of an inertial system with optical guidance along the surrounding terrain was chosen. Moreover, the optical correlation seeker 9E436, created in the early 90s at the Moscow TsNIIAG and shown at Eurosatory-2004, can be used both as part of the Iskander-E and on ballistic and cruise missiles of various classes and types (including intercontinental). GOS 9E436 has already passed flight tests and showed the accuracy of the missile when it hits the target up to two meters. To date, mass production of this head has been prepared.
Optical seeker 9E436 missiles 9M723 OTRK "Iskander" / Photo: militaryrussia.ru
- Mass GOS - 20 kg
- Flight task input time - no more than 5 minutes
- KVO - up to 20 m
This approach has its own advantages and disadvantages. Let's start with the latter. Since the system does not recognize the target itself, but the area around it, it cannot provide guidance to a moving object. To form a flight mission, you must have a reconnaissance photograph. The work of the seeker may be hindered by fog or an aerosol cloud exposed by the enemy, hiding the terrain. If the head is mounted on a ballistic missile, low cloud cover can interfere with its operation (for cruise missiles capable of flying at low altitudes, this problem does not exist).
However, these shortcomings are more than offset by advantages. The optical seeker is universal and makes only one requirement for the inertial control system of the rocket: bring the latter to the point where the optics begin to see the target. Against such a head, the existing active electronic warfare systems are powerless, which very effectively counteract radar homing systems. The high sensitivity of the seeker allows you to work even on a moonless night, which distinguishes the new system from early prototypes. In addition, optical systems do not need signals from space radio navigation systems, such as the American NAVSTAR, which in crisis cases can be turned off or disabled by radio interference. At the same time, the integration of inertial control with satellite navigation equipment and optical seeker makes it possible to create a missile that hits a given target in almost any conceivable conditions.
The active radar seeker 9B918, which was developed and produced by NPP Radar MMS, also participates in the work of the missile control.
Engine - solid propellant rocket engine, engine compartment 9X820 (rocket 9M723), the charge is made of mixed solid fuel with a high specific impulse. The Iskander/Iskander-E and Iskander-M missiles use different types of fuel. Solid propellant rocket rockets of the complex does not imply special heating during storage or operation at low temperatures (there are no missile heating systems on the SPU and TZM).
The remains of the engine compartment of the 9M723 rocket discovered on the territory of Georgia during the Georgian-Ossetian conflict, August 2008 / Photo: militaryphotos.net
- high-explosive fragmentation (all modifications), can be used with optical or radar correlation seeker;
- high-explosive incendiary use with optical or radar correlation seeker is unlikely
- penetrating (all modifications), can be used with optical or radar correlation seeker
- nuclear, power 5-50 kt ("Iskander-M"), theoretically can be used with an optical or radar correlation seeker. The use of nuclear warheads is probably not currently envisaged. in open photos and videos on SPU and TZM, there are no heating systems for nuclear charges (but based on the modularity of the complex, such systems can be installed at any time).
Rocket 9M723 - front view / Photo: fun-space.ru
Option 1 (possibly 9N722K1 - Design Bureau of the Votkinsk Machine-Building Plant.
- Weight - 480 kg
- The number of combat elements - 54 pcs.
- Warhead deployment height - 900-1400 m
- Operation height of combat elements - 6-10 m
Types of combat elements:
- fragmentation non-contact
- cumulative fragmentation
- self-aiming
- volumetric detonating
Option 2 (possibly 9N722K1 or another) - GosNIIMash (Dzerzhinsk)
- Weight - 480 kg
- The number of combat elements - 45 pcs.
- Type of combat elements - 9N730 with a central bursting charge (CRZ) 9N731
- Type of proximity fuse - 9E156 "Umbrella" developed by the Research Institute of Electronic Devices (Novosibirsk)
Proximity fuse 9E156 "Umbrella" of a cluster warhead submunition / Photo: news.ngs.ru
- Rocket 9M723K1 / 9M723K5 - missiles with cluster warheads.
- Rocket 9M723K-E - export version of the rocket with a cluster warhead
- Rocket 9M723-1 - an improved version of the rocket, developed as of 2007-2009.
- Rocket 9M723-1F / 9M723-1FE - missile with radar seeker 9B918
- Rocket 9M723-1F2 / 9M723-1F2Tl - mass-produced, with the letters "Tl" - telemetric version of the rocket
- Rocket 9M723-1K5 / 9M723-1K5Tl - mass-produced, with the letters "Tl" - a telemetric version of the rocket.
- 9M723 missile with a new type of combat equipment - the launch of a missile with a new type of combat equipment was carried out at the Kapustin Yar test site on October 11, 2011. The launch was successful.
- Rocket 9M723 with an optical correlation seeker - 11/14/2911, a rocket with a seeker of this type was successfully tested at the Kapustin Yar training ground.
The operational-tactical missile system "Iskander" (index - 9K720, according to NATO classification - SS-26 Stone "Stone") - is a family of operational-tactical missile systems: Iskander, Iskander-E, Iskander-K. The complex was developed in the Kolomna Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering. The Iskander missile system was adopted by the Russian army in 2006; to date, 20 Iskander systems have been produced (according to open data from the Ministry of Defense).
The complex is designed to engage combat units in conventional equipment of small-sized and area targets in the depth of the operational formation of enemy troops. It is assumed that it can be a means of delivery of tactical nuclear weapons.
Most likely targets:
Means of fire damage (missile systems, multiple launch rocket systems, long-range artillery);
Means of anti-missile and air defense;
Airplanes and helicopters at airfields;
Command posts and communication centers;
The most important objects of civil infrastructure.
The main features of the Iskander OTRK are:
High-precision effective destruction of various types of targets;
The possibility of covert combat duty, preparation for combat use and launching missile strikes;
Automatic calculation and input of the flight task for missiles when they are placed on the launcher;
High probability of completing a combat mission in the face of active opposition from the enemy;
High operational reliability of the rocket and its non-failure operation in preparation for launch and in flight;
High tactical maneuverability due to the placement of combat vehicles on all-wheel drive all-wheel drive chassis of high cross-country ability;
High strategic mobility, which is ensured by the ability to transport combat vehicles by all modes of transport, including aviation;
A high degree of automation of the process of combat control of missile units;
Rapid processing and timely delivery of intelligence information to the necessary levels of command and control;
Long service life and ease of use.
Combat characteristics:
Circular probable deviation: 1…30 m;
— launch weight of the rocket 3 800 kg;
- length 7.2 m;
- diameter 920 mm;
— weight of the warhead 480 kg;
- rocket speed after the initial part of the trajectory 2100 m / s;
- the minimum range of target destruction is 50 km;
- maximum range of target destruction:
500 km Iskander-K
280 km Iskander-E
- time before the launch of the first rocket 4 ... 16 minutes;
- interval between launches: 1 minute
- service life: 10 years, including 3 years in the field.
The main elements that make up the Iskander OTRK are:
Rocket,
- self-propelled launcher,
- transport-loading machine,
- routine maintenance machine,
- command and control vehicle,
- point of information preparation,
- a set of arsenal equipment,
- training aids.
Transport-loading vehicle of the Iskander complex Self-propelled launcher (SPU) - designed to store, transport, prepare and launch two missiles at a target (1 missile in the export version). SPU can be implemented on the basis of a special wheeled chassis MZKT-7930 manufactured by the Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant. GVW 42 t, payload 19 t, highway/dirt road speed 70/40 km/h, fuel range 1000 km. Calculation 3 people.
Transport-loading vehicle (TZM) - designed to transport an additional two missiles. TZM is implemented on the MZKT-7930 chassis, equipped with a loading crane. Full combat weight 40 tons. Calculation of 2 people.
Command and staff vehicle of the Iskander complex The command and staff vehicle (KShM) is designed to control the entire Iskander complex. Implemented on the KamAZ-43101 wheeled chassis. Calculation 4 people. KShM CHARACTERISTICS:
- maximum range of radio communication in the parking lot / on the march: 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
- unfolding (clotting) time: up to 30 minutes
- continuous work time: 48 hours
Machine regulations and maintenance (MRTO) - designed to check the on-board equipment of missiles and instruments, for routine repairs. Implemented on a KamAZ wheeled chassis. The mass is 13.5 tons, the deployment time does not exceed 20 minutes, the time of the automated routine check cycle of the on-board equipment of the rocket is 18 minutes, the calculation is 2 people.
Information preparation point of the Iskander complex Information preparation point (PPI) - designed to determine the coordinates of the target and prepare flight missions for missiles with their subsequent transfer to the SPU. PPI is integrated with reconnaissance means and can receive tasks and assigned targets from all necessary sources, including from a satellite, aircraft or drone. Calculation 2 people.
Life support vehicle (MZhO) - designed to accommodate, rest and eat combat crews. Implemented on a KamAZ-43118 wheeled chassis. The machine includes: a rest compartment and a household supply compartment. The rest compartment has 6 wagon-type beds with folding upper deck chairs, 2 lockers, built-in lockers, an opening window. The household supply compartment has 2 lockers with seats, a folding lifting table, a water supply system with a 300-liter tank, a water heating tank, a water pump, a drain system, a sink, a dryer for clothes and shoes.
The life support vehicle of the Iskander missile system The Iskander missile complex is a solid-propellant, single-stage, in-flight warhead, guided and vigorously maneuverable missile throughout the flight path that is difficult to predict. It maneuvers especially actively on the starting and final stages of the flight, on which it approaches the target with a high (20-30 units) overload.
This necessitates the flight of an anti-missile to intercept the Iskander OTRK missile with an overload 2-3 times greater, which is currently almost impossible.
Most of the trajectory of the Iskander missile, made using stealth technology with a small reflective surface, passes at an altitude of 50 km, which also significantly reduces the likelihood of it being hit by the enemy. The effect of "invisibility" is provided due to the combination of design features of the rocket and the treatment of its surface with special coatings.
To bring the missile to the target, an inertial control system is used, which is subsequently captured by an autonomous correlation-extreme optical homing head (GOS). The principle of operation of the missile homing system is based on the formation by the optical equipment of the GOS of the image of the terrain in the target area, which the on-board computer compares with the standard introduced into it when preparing the missile for launch.
The optical homing head is distinguished by increased sensitivity and resistance to existing electronic warfare equipment, which makes it possible to launch missiles on moonless nights without additional natural illumination and hit a moving target with an error of plus or minus two meters. At present, no other similar missile system in the world, except for the Iskander OTRK, can solve such a problem.
It is characteristic that the optical homing system used in the rocket does not need corrective signals from space radio navigation systems, which in a crisis situation can be disabled by radio interference or simply turned off. The integrated use of an inertial control system with satellite navigation equipment and an optical seeker made it possible to create a missile that hits a given target in almost any possible conditions. The homing head installed on the Iskander OTRK missile can be installed on ballistic and cruise missiles of various classes and types.
Types of combat units
- cassette with fragmentation submunitions of non-contact detonation (work at a height of about 10 m above the ground)
- cassette with cumulative fragmentation submunitions
- cassette with self-aiming submunitions
- cassette volumetric detonating action
- high-explosive fragmentation (OFBCH)
- high-explosive incendiary
- penetrating (PrBCh)
The cluster warhead accommodates 54 combat elements.
The Iskander complex is integrated with various intelligence and control systems. It is capable of receiving information about a target assigned to hit from a satellite, reconnaissance aircraft or an unmanned aerial vehicle (of the Reis-D type) to an information preparation point (PPI). It calculates the flight task for the rocket and prepares the reference information for the rockets.
This information is transmitted via radio channels to command and staff vehicles of battalion commanders and batteries, and from there to launchers. Commands to launch missiles can come from the KShM or from the command posts of senior artillery commanders.
The placement of two missiles on each SPU and TZM significantly increases the firepower of missile battalions, and a one-minute interval between missile launches at different targets ensures high fire performance. In terms of its effectiveness, taking into account the total combat capabilities, the Iskander operational-tactical missile system is equivalent to a nuclear weapon.
The 9K720 "Iskander" high-precision operational-tactical missile system of the ground forces is designed for covert preparation and delivery of effective missile strikes against especially important small-sized and area targets in the depth of the operational formation of enemy troops: fire weapons (missile systems, MLRS, long-range artillery), aircraft and helicopters at airfields, command posts and communication centers, the most important objects of civil infrastructure.
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 Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering (KBM Kolomna), known as the creator of the Tochka, Oka missile systems. The launcher was developed by the Central Design Bureau "Titan" (Volgograd), the homing system was developed by the Central Research Institute of Automation and Hydraulics (Moscow).
Under the conditions of the 1987 INF Treaty and the renunciation of the use of nuclear weapons in the theater 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 over 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;
the possibility of integration with global satellite navigation systems (GSSN - "Glonass", "NAVSTAR");
the possibility of hitting heavily protected targets;
increase in fire performance;
the ability to effectively overcome the action of air defense and missile defense systems;
the possibility of hitting moving targets.
To meet the above requirements, an export version of the OTRK 9K720 was created, which received the designation "Iskander-E". is a weapon of a completely new generation, surpassing in its tactical and technical characteristics the existing RK 9K72 Elbrus, Tochka-U, Lance, ATASMS, Pluton, etc.
The main features of the RK 9K720 "Iskander":
high-precision and effective destruction of various types of targets;
the possibility of covert training, combat duty and effective missile strikes;
automatic calculation and input of the flight mission of missiles by means of the launcher;
high probability of accomplishing a combat mission in the face of active opposition from the enemy;
high probability of failure-free functioning of the rocket in preparation for launch, as well as in flight;
high tactical maneuverability due to the high cross-country ability 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 dissemination of intelligence information to the relevant command and control levels;
long service life and ease of use.
"Iskander-E" in terms of its tactical and technical characteristics fully complies with the position of the Regime of Control over the Non-Proliferation of Missile Technologies. 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 system, automated combat control and information support make it possible to quickly respond to new requirements without significant refinement of its combat means and, as a result, guarantee it a long life cycle.
For the armament of the Russian army, a version of the Iskander-M missile system with an increased flight range (more than 450 km) was developed, as well as the Iskander-K, equipped with a high-precision R-500 cruise missile (range up to 2600 km) of the Caliber system developed by the Yekaterinburg OJSC "OKB" Novator ". The complex was successfully tested in 2007 at the Kapustin Yar test site.
In 2007, the Iskander-M complexes (four combat vehicles) were equipped with a training division in Kapustin Yar, which took part in the war with Georgia in August 2008.
In the west, the complex received the designation SS-26.
Composition
The complex includes:
missile 9M723;
self-propelled launcher 9P78 (SPU);
transport-loading vehicle 9T250 (TZM);
command and staff vehicle 9S552 (KShM);
mobile information preparation station 9S920 (PPI);
machine regulations and maintenance (MRTO);
life support machine;
sets of arsenal and training equipment.
Rocket 9M723 - solid-propellant, single-stage with a warhead that cannot be separated in flight. The rocket is controlled throughout the flight path using aerodynamic and gas-dynamic rudders. The flight path of 9M723 is not ballistic, but controlled. The rocket is constantly changing the plane of the trajectory. It maneuvers especially actively in the area of its acceleration and approach to the target - with an overload from 20 to 30g. In order to intercept a 9M723 missile, an anti-missile must move along a trajectory with an overload two or three times higher, and this is practically impossible. Most of the flight trajectory of a missile made using the 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 an enemy. The effect of "invisibility" is achieved due to the 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 the optical equipment forms an image of the terrain in the target area, which is compared by the on-board computer with the standard introduced during the preparation of the rocket for launch. The optical head has increased resistance to existing electronic warfare equipment 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 tactical system in the world can solve such a problem, except for the Iskander. In addition, optical systems do not need signals from space radio navigation systems, which in crisis cases can be turned off or disabled by radio interference. Integration of inertial control with satellite navigation equipment and optical seeker allows you to create a missile that hits a given target in almost any conceivable 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:
cluster warhead with fragmentation submunitions of non-contact detonation;
cluster warhead with cumulative fragmentation submunitions;
cluster warhead with self-aiming submunitions;
cluster warhead volumetric detonating action;
high-explosive fragmentation warhead (OFBCH);
high-explosive incendiary warhead;
penetrating warhead (PrBCh).
The cassette warhead provides 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 undermining of the combat elements is carried out at a height of 6-10 m above the target.
Thanks to the implementation of terminal control and guidance methods, control over the entire flight path, a wide range of powerful warheads and the integration of on-board control systems with various correction and homing systems, as well as a high probability of performing a combat mission in conditions of active enemy opposition, typical targets are hit by launching just 1- 2 Iskander-E missiles, which is equivalent in efficiency to the use of a nuclear weapon.
The fully autonomous SPU is placed on an 8x8 off-road 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 SPU arrival direction. The SPU provides: automatic determination of its coordinates, data exchange with all command and control units, combat duty and preparation for launch with the missile in a horizontal position, single and salvo launches of missiles, storage and testing of missiles. The most important feature of the launcher was the placement on it of not one (as in Tochka and Oka), but two missiles. The time spent by the launcher at the launch position is minimal and is up to 20 minutes, while the interval between launches of the 1st and 2nd missiles is not more than one minute. Missile launches do not require launching positions specially prepared in engineering and topographic and geodetic terms, which can lead to their disclosure by the enemy. Launches can be carried out from the so-called "readiness from the march", i.e. the launcher drives into any site (except for swampy terrain and loose sands) and its calculation in an automated cycle, without leaving the cockpit, prepares and launches the rocket. After that, the launcher moves to the reloading point and, after loading the missiles, is ready to deliver a second missile strike from any starting position.
TZM is also placed on the MZKT-7930 chassis and is equipped with a jib crane. Full combat weight - 40000kg, calculation of TZM - 2 people.
The automated control system is built on the basis of a command and control vehicle unified for all levels of control, made on the chassis of the KAMAZ family. Adjustment to a certain level of control (brigade, division, starting battery) is carried out programmatically during operation. To ensure information exchange, the launcher is equipped with combat control and communications equipment. Information exchange can be carried out both through open and closed communication channels.
"Iskander-E" is integrated with various intelligence and control systems. Information about the target is transmitted from a satellite, a reconnaissance aircraft or an unmanned aerial vehicle (of the Reis-D type) to an information preparation point (IPP). It calculates the flight mission for the missile and prepares reference information for missiles with OGSN. Then this information is transmitted via radio channels to the command and staff vehicles (KShM) of the battalion commanders and batteries, and from there to the launchers. Commands for launching missiles can be formed both in the KShM and come from the command posts of senior artillery commanders.
The machine of regulations and maintenance (MRTO) is located on the chassis of the Kamaz family and is designed for routine checks of on-board equipment of missiles placed on TZM (as well as in containers), checking devices that are part of group sets of spare parts and accessories for the elements of the complex and current repair of missiles by forces calculation of MRT. Vehicle weight - 13500 kg, deployment time - 20 minutes, time for an automated routine check of the missile's onboard equipment - 18 minutes, crew - 2 people.
The life support vehicle is designed to accommodate combat crews (up to 8 people) for rest and food.
Tactical and technical characteristics
| Firing range, km: - minimum - maximum |
50 280 (400) |
| Shooting accuracy (KVO), m: - without homing system - with homing system |
30-70 5-7 |
| Number of missiles: - at SPU - on TZM |
2 2 |
| Launch time of the first rocket, min: - from the highest readiness - from the march |
no more than 4 no more than 16 |
| Interval between starts, min | up to 1 |
| Assigned service life, years | 10 (of which 3 years in the field) |
| Temperature range of application, °C | up to ± 50 |
| Height above sea level, m | up to 3000 |
| Rocket | |
| Starting weight of the rocket, kg | 3800 |
| Warhead mass, kg | 480 |
| Length, mm | 7200 |
| Maximum diameter, mm: - on yoke clips - by engine |
950 920 |
| SPU | |
| Gross weight, t | 42 |
| Mass of placed load, t | 19 |
| Maximum speed, km/h: - by highway - on a dirt road |
70 40 |
| Cruising range according to the control fuel consumption, km | 1000 |
| Calculation, persons | 3 |
| KShM | |
| 4 | |
| Maximum radio communication range, km - in the parking lot - on the march |
350 50 |
| Combat mission calculation time, s | to 10 |
| Maximum command transmission time, s | 15 |
| Number of communication channels | up to 16 |
| Data transmission (reception) rate, kbps | 16 |
| Deployment/folding time (with antenna deployment/folding), min | up to 30 |
| 48 | |
| PPI | |
| Number of automated workplaces, pcs. | 2 |
| Time to determine the coordinates of the target point, min | from 0.5 to 2 |
| Time to bring target designation to SPU, min | 1 |
| Time of continuous operation, h | 16 |
The index of the complex is 9K720, according to the classification of the US Defense Ministry and NATO - SS-26 Stone, eng. Stone
Family of operational-tactical missile systems (OTRK): Iskander, Iskander-E, Iskander-K, Iskander-M. The complex was created in the Kolomna Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering (KBM). For the first time, the Iskander was shown publicly in August 1999 at the MAKS aerospace show.
History
The development of the Iskander OTRK was started in accordance with the Decree 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, including the personal efforts of the chief KBM designer S.P. Invincible, who proved to the Military-Industrial Commission of the Presidium of the Council of Ministers of the USSR the need to create a missile system instead of the Oka OTRK, which does not fall under the provisions of the agreement with the United States on the INF Treaty.
On October 11, 2011, the first stage of testing 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 rocket of the 9M723 complex has one stage with a solid propellant engine.
The trajectory of movement is quasi-ballistic (not ballistic, maneuvering), the rocket is controlled throughout the flight using aerodynamic and gas-dynamic rudders. Made with the use of technologies for reducing radar visibility (the so-called "stealth technologies"): small scattering surface, special coatings, small size of protruding parts. Most of the flight takes place at an altitude of about 50 km. The rocket conducts intensive maneuvering with overloads of the order of 20-30 units in the initial and final sections of the flight. The guidance system is mixed: inertial in the initial and middle sections of the flight and optical (using the GOS developed by TsNIIAG) in the final section of the flight, which achieves a high hit 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 type cruise missile. The launches were made by the 107th separate missile brigade (Birobidzhan). Developer and manufacturer - OKB "Novator". Chief designer - P.I. Kamenev. Rocket tests took place from 05/30/2007. Firing range: maximum - up to 500 km.
Since 2013, it is planned to supply missiles equipped with an electronic warfare system to the Russian Armed Forces, which provides cover for the missile in the final flight segment. This system includes means of setting passive and active interference with surveillance and firing radars of the enemy's air and missile defense, using noise and the release of decoys.
Options
Option for the Russian armed forces, 2 missiles on launchers, the firing range in various sources varies from the declared for Iskander-E - 280 km - up 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 them usually pass at maximum altitude. Controllable throughout the flight. The flight path is not ballistic, difficult to predict. The missile is made using the technology of low radar visibility and also has a radar absorbing coating and is a relatively small target in its natural physical size. Predicting a target in an early interception attempt is further complicated by heavy 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 medium-range missile defense / air defense systems), at an angle of about 90 degrees (in some cases only the angle of attack is sufficient for the complete defenselessness of the attacked missile defense system, and even more so for air defense, especially short-range ones), so Iskander-M has a number of advantages over analogues, and high capabilities not only for hitting a target, but even means of protection in the form of modern missile defense systems.
The missile carries a complex set of passive and active interference; when approaching the target, false targets and jammers are additionally fired. Sample M is additionally equipped with an electronic warfare system to disrupt the operation of the enemy radar. All this also provides the missile with high combat effectiveness in comparison with simpler similar missiles.
Maneuvering at high altitude is provided by speed and aerodynamic rudders. Such maneuvering is not intensive, but imposes ultra-high demands on the reaction time for the interceptor (in a hundredth of a second, the missiles approach by tens of meters, the reaction time of one of the fastest missile defense systems is more than 5 seconds, as well as air defense systems from open sources). If the interceptor is kinetic, this also requires successful trajectory prediction with high accuracy. In order to successfully intercept a ballistic target with a high probability, previously created before the non-ballistic Iskander complexes, it was early enough to detect a target of the appropriate size and speed, and, having predicted the trajectory, ensure interception. However, Iskander changes his trajectory. The Oka complex, the predecessor of Iskander, could change the target while maintaining a stable trajectory before and after the maneuver, thereby moving away from the interceptor, or at least reduced 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. Rocket maneuvering at high altitude is provided 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.
Variant using cruise missiles, firing range 500 km, warhead weight 480 kg. The flight altitude of the rocket is about 7 meters when reaching the target, and not higher than 6 km, the rocket is automatically corrected all the time of the flight and automatically goes around the terrain. For the Iskander-K OTRK, R-500 cruise missiles with a range of 2000 km are also being assembled.
Combat use
There is no reliable information about the combat use of the Iskander complexes, however, there were reports refuted by the Russian military that the complex was used during the Georgian-South Ossetian armed conflict in 2008.
According to Shota Utiashvili, head of the Analytical Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia, Russia used Iskander missile systems at facilities in Poti, Gori and the Baku-Supsa pipeline.
In blogs, Utiashvili's statement was widely discussed and was perceived ambiguously, since some of the photographs of several march stages presented as evidence do not refer to the Iskander, but to the 9M79 missiles of the Tochka-U complexes, while the other part of the photographs really shows fragments with applied code 9M723, corresponding to the designation of the missiles of the Iskander complex.
Mikhail Barabanov, an expert in 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 of the warhead in the weapons depot of the Georgian battalion, it was blown up. The author notes that this information is based on unverified sources. A Dutch commission investigating the death of RTL Nieuws cameraman Stan Storimans in Gori on August 12, 2008 determined that the journalist had been killed by a single 5mm steel ball. According to the BBC, the Dutch commission expressed an expert opinion that the 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 said that the data provided by the Dutch side is not enough to determine the type of media. Earlier, Human Rights Watch put forward another version, according to which the cause of the death of the Dutch journalist was RBC-250 aviation cluster bombs.
Colonel General Anatoly Nogovitsyn, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, denied all reports of the use of Iskanders in Georgia, saying that the Iskander complex was not used during the hostilities 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 the Iskander complexes, as well as their export supplies, are the subject of political consultations between the countries.
On November 5, 2008, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, addressing 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 US 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 tension 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 announced that the Russian Federation was 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 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 Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation denied this information, stating that no decision had been made at the General Staff on approving the staff of the military unit of the Baltic Fleet, armed with Iskander missile systems. On December 15, 2013, the German media, citing sources in the security structures, reported that Russia had deployed Iskander missile systems in the Kaliningrad region. This is evidenced by satellite images showing at least ten Iskander-M complexes deployed in Kaliningrad, as well as along the border with the Baltic countries. The deployment may have taken place during 2013.
The complexes were transferred to the Kaliningrad region during military exercises and a sudden 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 upsetting the balance 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 Iskanders 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 delivery of 6 complexes (PU), in 2011 the formation of the first brigade (12 launchers) was completed;
-107th missile brigade of the Air Defense Forces (Birobidzhan) - completely re-equipped on June 28, 2013 (12 launchers);
-1st missile brigade of the Southern Military District (Krasnodar) - the transfer of equipment took place on November 14, 2013 (12 launchers);
-112th separate guards missile brigade of the Western Military District (Shuya) - the transfer of equipment took place on July 8, 2014 (12 launchers);
92nd separate missile brigade (Orenburg) of the Central Military District - the transfer of equipment took place on November 19, 2014 (12 launchers);
-103rd separate missile brigade (Ulan-Ude) VVO - the transfer of equipment took place on July 17, 2015 (12 launchers);
By 2018, it is planned to re-equip all missile brigades on the Iskander OTRK
Main characteristics
Purpose of the complex
Designed to engage combat units in conventional equipment of small-sized and area targets in the depth of the operational formation of enemy troops. It is assumed that it can be a means of delivery of tactical nuclear weapons.
Most likely targets:
Means of fire damage (missile systems, multiple launch rocket systems, long-range artillery)
- means of anti-missile and air defense
-airplanes and helicopters at airfields
- command posts and communication centers
- the most important objects of civil infrastructure
The 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 storage, transportation, preparation and launch of two missiles at the target. Iskander can be made on the basis of a special wheeled chassis manufactured by the Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant (MZKT-7930). GVW 42 t, payload 19 t, highway/dirt road speed 70/40 km/h, fuel range 1000 km. Calculation 3 people.
- Transport-loading vehicle (TZM) (9T250 (9T250E))
12 pcs. - designed to transport an additional two missiles. Made on the MZKT-7930 chassis, equipped with a loading crane. Full combat weight 40 tons. Calculation of 2 people.
- Command and staff vehicle (KShM) (9S552)
11 pcs. - designed to control the entire Iskander complex. Assembled on a KAMAZ 43101 wheeled chassis. R-168-100KAE "Aqueduct" radio station. Calculation 4 people. Characteristics of KShM:
-maximum range of radio communication in the parking lot / on the march: 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 (clotting) time: up to 30 minutes
- continuous work time: 48 hours
-Machine regulations and maintenance (MRTO)
Designed to check the on-board equipment of missiles and instruments, to carry out current repairs. Made on a KamAZ wheeled chassis. The mass is 13.5 tons, the deployment time does not exceed 20 minutes, the time of the automated routine check cycle of the on-board equipment of the rocket is 18 minutes, the calculation is 2 people.
- Information preparation point (PPI) (9S920, KAMAZ 43101)
Designed to determine the coordinates of the target and prepare flight missions for missiles with their subsequent transfer to the SPU. PPI is interfaced with reconnaissance means and can receive tasks and assigned targets from all necessary sources, including from a satellite, aircraft or UAV. Calculation 2 people.
- Life support machine (LJO)
14 pcs. - designed to accommodate, rest and eat combat crews. Made on a wheeled chassis KAMAZ 43118. The machine includes: a rest compartment and a household supply compartment. The rest compartment has 6 wagon-type beds with folding upper deck chairs, 2 lockers, built-in lockers, an opening window. The household supply 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 drain system, a sink, a dryer for clothes and shoes.
-A set of arsenal equipment and training aids
Combat characteristics
Circular error probable: 10-30 m (depending on the guidance system used); 5-7 m ("Iskander-M" using a missile with a correlation seeker)
- Launch weight of the rocket: 3 800 kg
-Warhead weight: 480 kg
- Length: 7.2m
- Diameter: 920mm
-Rocket speed after the initial part of the trajectory: 2,100 m/s. Maximum overloads during the flight - 20-30G (the rocket maneuvers in flight both in height and in the direction of flight). The maximum height of the trajectory 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 to launch the first rocket: 4-16 minutes
- Interval between launches: 1 minute (for 9P78 launcher with two missiles)
-Temperature operating range: ?50 deg.C to 50 deg.C
- Service life: 10 years, including 3 years in the field
Head types
In normal gear:
- cassette with 54 fragmentation submunitions of non-contact detonation (work at a height of about 10 m above the ground)
- cassette with cumulative fragmentation submunitions
- cassette with self-aiming submunitions
- cassette volumetric detonating action
- high-explosive fragmentation (OFBCH)
- high-explosive incendiary
- penetrating (PrBCh)
-special (nuclear)
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