Buk anti-aircraft missile system mass. Buk anti-aircraft missile system. Modifications of the Buk complex

In the seventies, the Buk family of air defense systems were recognized as one of the most effective air defense systems. Today, the Russian army has several modifications of similar military equipment in service. The article contains information about the tactical and technical characteristics and structure of the Buk-M2 anti-aircraft missile system.

History of creation

On January 13, 1972, the Council of Ministers of the USSR adopted a resolution to begin design work on the creation of new promising Buk anti-aircraft systems. Soviet gunsmiths were given the task of creating a new military complex to replace the already used 2K12 “Cube”. In 1979, after successful tests, this air defense system (GRAU index -9K37) was adopted by the Soviet army. Design work on its modernization began immediately. The result of such activities was the creation in 1982 of a new military complex - Buk-M1. Unlike the basic version, it had an increased affected area. In addition, the upgraded complex could recognize three classes of targets: airplanes, helicopters and ballistic missiles. This military system became the first air defense system supplied to foreign customers. Finland received several units of such equipment. The air defense system entered service with the Soviet army in 1983. From 1993 to 1996, intensive modifications were carried out on the 9K37 project. The designers created a transitional modification of the Buk-M1-2.

Work to increase the range and height of hitting targets did not stop there. It was planned to create a system that would have improved characteristics. As a result of the modernization, a new military complex was designed, known as the Buk-M2 (a photo of the installation is presented in the article). In the USA, this air defense system is classified as “Grizzly-17”.

Getting to know the system

"Buk-M2" is a self-propelled, highly mobile and multifunctional anti-aircraft missile system designed for medium-range destruction. The air defense missile system was designed under the leadership of the famous designer of the Instrument Engineering Research Institute E. Pigin. Unlike the previous modification, a new universal missile 9M317 was developed for the Buk-M2 anti-aircraft missile system.

The purpose of the military installation

The mission of the Buk-M2 air defense system is as follows:

• Protect ground facilities and troops from enemy air strikes, including cruise missiles.
• Strike at air targets located at low and medium altitudes (from 30 to 18 thousand meters).

Design, characteristics

According to military experts, the most formidable air defense missile system, the 9M317 missile, was developed for the Buk-M2. It is designed for a range of up to 50 thousand meters. Length - 5.5 m. The mass of the rocket is 715 kg. Movement speed - 1230 m/s. The wingspan is 86 cm. During the explosion of an anti-aircraft guided missile, objects within a radius of 17 m are damaged. The 9M317 is equipped with an inertial-corrected control system, for which a new semi-active Doppler radar seeker 9E420 was created. The equipment is equipped with a rod warhead weighing 70 kg and a dual-mode solid propellant rocket engine.

Judging by the reviews of military experts, the missile, upon completion of complete assembly, is provided with a high level of reliability. Its operational life is at least ten years. During this time, missiles are not checked.

The installation is stored and transported to the place of its combat use in special fiberglass containers. 9M317 are effective at any time of the year. The rocket is not susceptible to precipitation, humidity and temperature.

What targets do 9M317 missiles hit?

The Buk-M2 complexes, equipped with 9M317, hit the following enemy aviation targets:

• Modern and advanced maneuvering aircraft. Chance of defeat: 95%.
• Helicopters providing fire support. Probability of destroying hovering helicopters: up to 40%.
• Hovering, tactical ballistic, cruise and aircraft missiles. Optimal altitude: 20 km. The probability of destroying tactical missiles is 70%, and cruise missiles: 80%.
• An anti-aircraft guided missile destroys aircraft bombs at an altitude of up to 20 km.
• Enemy surface and ground radio-contrast targets.

The designers managed to expand the combat capabilities of the 9M317 by creating a new operating mode for it. If it is necessary to destroy any surface or ground targets in the missiles, the remote fuses are switched off.

About combat installations 9A317

In addition to anti-aircraft guided missiles, the Buk-M2 is equipped with self-propelled and towed firing systems. For self-propelled guns (SOU) 9A317, tracked chassis GM-569 are provided. These settings are used for detection, identification, auto-tracking and target type recognition. In addition, with the help of the SOU, the flight mission is practiced, radio-correcting commands are transmitted to the missile, and the firing result is evaluated. 9A317 can attack an object both as part of an air defense system and independently.

The SDA is a phased array antenna with electronic beam scanning. The target detection range is 20 km. The firing installation is capable of detecting up to 10 objects and firing simultaneously at 4 of them. An optical-electronic system and CCD-matrix television channels have been developed for the SOU. The installation is reliably protected from radio frequency interference and operates around the clock, which has a positive effect on the “survivability” of the air defense system. The SOU weighs 35 tons. Comes with four missiles. The crew consists of 4 people.

About the launch-loading installation 9A316

The Buk-M2 ROM is used as a transport-loading vehicle and launcher. 9A316 carries out pre-launch preparation and launch of anti-aircraft guided missiles.

This ROM is installed on the GM-577 tracked chassis. Wheeled semi-trailers with tractors are provided for towing. The launch supports are equipped with four missiles. Transport supports also have the same number of missiles. ROMs are charged within 13 minutes. The installation weighs 38 tons. Combat crew of 4 people.

About the controls

The anti-aircraft missile system is equipped with:

• Command post 9S510. Transported using a tracked chassis or a wheeled semi-trailer using a tractor. The reaction time takes no more than 2 seconds. Weighs up to 30 tons. There are 6 people in the crew.
• Radar station (radar) 9С36, which detects targets and guides missiles in wooded areas. The station is equipped with an antenna that rises to a height of up to 22 meters. The antenna is a phased array that provides electronic scanning. The station is installed on tracked chassis or on wheeled semi-trailers with tractors. The radar detects a target at a distance of up to 120 km. The station is capable of simultaneously detecting up to 10 targets, identifying four priority ones. On tracked chassis the station weighs up to 36 tons, on wheeled ones - 30 tons. The crew has four people.

• Radar station 9S18M1-3, performing target detection. It is a phased waveguide-slot array. The station operates in several stages. First, the airspace is scanned by a beam in the vertical plane. Then the received data is transmitted to the command post using telecode lines. Detection range - 160 km. The review lasts for 6 seconds. Especially for automatic protection against active interference, the station is provided with instantaneous pulse adjustment and blocking of range intervals. The station weighs up to 30 tons. To transfer it from a combat position to a traveling position and vice versa, five minutes is enough. The crew includes three people.

Characteristics of Buk-M2

• The combat vehicle weighs 35.5 tons.
• Engine power is 710 hp. With.
• Cross-country speed - 45 km/h.
• The time to deploy the Buk-M2 is up to five minutes.
• Shooting is carried out at a speed of 4 seconds.
• Reaction time - up to 10 seconds.
• Crew - three people.
• Fire from the Buk-M2 complexes is carried out under the control of operators and autonomously.
• The air defense system is capable of simultaneously firing at 24 enemy aircraft targets.
• The anti-aircraft missile launcher hits approaching targets at a speed of 1100 m/s, and receding targets at 400 m/s.
• The complex has an operational life of up to 20 years.

Production

Due to its high performance, this air defense system was immediately approved by the expert commission and adopted by the Soviet army. However, as a result of the collapse of the Soviet Union and the beginning of a difficult economic situation in the country, mass production of the complexes was suspended. They began equipping the Russian air defense system with air defense missile systems only in 2008. The Russian army currently has 300 Buk-M2 units in service. Their location was the Alkino and Kapustin Yar military training grounds. The production of Buk-M2 anti-aircraft missile systems is carried out at the Ulyanovsk Mechanical Plant. A number of complex works were carried out at the enterprise to reorganize technological processes and re-equip equipment. The plant was replenished with a workshop where antenna systems are manufactured. In addition, the training and retraining centers opened at the enterprise provide training for Russian and foreign specialists. A large amount of SAM data is produced for export. In 2011, 19 Buk-M2 units were delivered to the Syrian army. Venezuela owns two Russian complexes. The exact number of air defense systems in Iraq and Azerbaijan is unknown.

Finally

Today, in any military conflict, enemy aircraft attack primarily air defense systems. This can be successfully countered by being armed with the most modern anti-aircraft missile systems.

"Buk-M2", despite all the undeniable advantages of the installation, continues to be intensively refined and improved. The Buk family already includes modernized models M2E, M3 and M4.

The Research Institute of Instrument Engineering was appointed its main developer, and the 9A39 launch-loading installations were created at the Start Machine-Building Design Bureau. Unified tracked chassis for the complex's combat vehicles were developed at OKB-40 of the Mytishchi Machine-Building Plant, while the design of 9M38 missiles was entrusted to the Sverdlovsk machine-building design bureau "Novator". The 9S18 “Dome” detection and target designation station was developed at the Research Institute of Measuring Instruments. In the West, the complex received the designation SA-11 Gadfly (“Bumblebee”).

The Buk air defense system included:

— Anti-aircraft missile SAM 9M38 It was equipped with a dual-mode solid propellant engine (total operating time - 15 seconds), and in the front part a semi-active homing head, autopilot equipment, power supplies and a high-explosive fragmentation warhead were sequentially placed.

— Command post 9S470 Its function is to receive and process information about targets coming from the 9S18 detection station and six self-propelled firing systems, select targets and distribute them between installations. The command post processed messages about 46 targets at an altitude of up to 20 km in a zone with a radius of 100 km.

— Detection and target designation station 9S18 “Dome” A three-coordinate coherent-pulse station in the centimeter range with electronic scanning of the beam in the sector and mechanical rotation of the antenna was intended for detecting and identifying air targets at ranges of up to 120 km and transmitting information to the command post.

— Self-propelled firing system 9A310 The time for transferring the installation from the traveling position to the combat position was no more than 5 minutes, and the time for transferring from standby mode to working mode was no more than 20 seconds; charging the installation with four missiles took no more than 12 minutes. The length of the 9A310 is 9.3 m, the width is 3.25 m (9.03 m in working position), and the height is 3.8 m (7.72 m, respectively).

— Launch-loading installation 9A39 It was intended for transporting and storing eight missiles (4 each on the launcher and on fixed cradle), launching four missiles, self-loading its launcher with four missiles from the cradle and self-loading eight missiles from a transport vehicle (in 26 minutes). The launch-loading installation, in addition to the starting device, crane and cradle, included: a digital computer, navigation equipment, topographical reference and orientation, a communication system, energy supply and power supply units. The length of the launcher-loading installation is 9.96 m, width - 3.316 m, height - 3.8 m.

Joint tests of the Buk complex were carried out from November 1977 to March 1979 at the Emba training ground in Kazakhstan. “Buk” surpassed all similar systems that preceded it (Kub-M3 and Kub-M4 air defense systems), demonstrating higher combat and operational characteristics.

The installation ensured simultaneous fire by a division on up to six targets, and, if necessary, the execution of up to six independent combat missions with the autonomous use of self-propelled fire systems. The Buk was distinguished by greater reliability of target detection due to the organization of a joint survey of the space by a detection station and six self-propelled firing systems.

Based on the results of fire tests, it was determined that the Buk air defense system provides fire at non-maneuvering targets flying at speeds of up to 800 m/s at altitudes from 25 m to 18 km, at ranges from 3 to 25 km (up to 30 km at target speeds of up to 300 m/s) and with a probability of damage equal to 0.7−0.8. When firing at targets maneuvering with overloads of up to 8 units, the probability of defeat was reduced to 0.6. As a result, the Buk complex was adopted by the air defense forces in 1980.

"Buk-M1"

In accordance with the Resolution of the Central Committee of the CPSU and the Council of Ministers of the USSR dated November 30, 1979, the Buk air defense system was modernized to increase its combat capabilities, the protection of electronic equipment from interference and anti-radar missiles. The combat assets of the Buk-M1 complex were interchangeable with the Buk air defense system without modifications; the standard organization of combat formations and technical units was also similar to the Buk complex.

The 9A310M1 self-propelled firing system, compared to the 9A310 installation, ensured detection and acquisition of targets for tracking at long ranges (25-30%), as well as recognition of aircraft, ballistic missiles and helicopters with a probability of at least 0.6.

The 9S470M1 command post, compared to the 9S470 command post of the Buk complex, provided simultaneous reception of information from its own detection and target designation station and about six targets from the control post.

The complex used a more advanced detection and target designation station 9S18M1 (“Kupol-M1”), which had a self-propelled tracked chassis GM-567M, the same type as a command post, a self-propelled firing system and a launch-loading installation.

"Buk-M1−2"

Cooperation of enterprises led by NIIP named after V.V. Tikhomirov in 1994-1997, work was carried out to create a modernized Buk-M1-2 complex. As a result, it turned into a universal fire weapon: through the use of the new 9M317 missile and the modernization of other weapons, for the first time it was possible to destroy tactical combat missiles, aircraft missiles at ranges of up to 20 km, elements of precision weapons, ships at ranges of up to 25 km and ground targets ( aircraft at airfields, launchers, large command posts) at ranges up to 15 km. The effectiveness of destruction was also increased, the boundaries of the affected zones were increased to 45 km in range and up to 25 km in altitude.

The Buk-M1−2 complex differs from its predecessor in the use of the new 9M317 missile. In addition, it is planned to introduce a new tool into the complex - radar illumination of targets and missile guidance with the antenna placed in the working position at a height of up to 22 meters using a telescopic device. Thanks to this, the combat capabilities of the complex to destroy low-flying targets, in particular, modern cruise missiles, have significantly expanded.

The complex is offered in two versions - mobile on tracked vehicles of the GM-569 family, similar to those used in previous modifications of the Buk complex, and also transported by KrAZ vehicles with semi-trailers. In the automotive version, with a slight reduction in cost, cross-country ability worsens and the deployment time of the anti-aircraft missile system increases from 5 to 15 minutes.

The 9A310M1−2 self-propelled firing system includes:— radar station (radar) — launcher with four missiles — digital computer system — television-optical sight — laser rangefinder — navigation and communications equipment — radio direction finder

"Buk-M2"

The multifunctional highly mobile medium-range anti-aircraft missile system 9K317 "Buk-M2" is designed to destroy tactical and strategic aircraft, cruise missiles, helicopters and other aircraft in the entire range of their practical use in conditions of intense electronic and fire counteraction from the enemy, as well as to combat tactical ballistic, aviation missiles and other elements of high-precision weapons, destruction of surface and shelling of ground targets. The Buk-M2 air defense system can be used for air defense of troops, in various forms of combat operations, administrative and industrial facilities and territories of the country.

The Buk-M2 was intended to replace the Kub and Buk anti-aircraft systems of previous generations and was supposed to enter service in the early 1990s, but this did not happen due to the collapse of the USSR and the difficult economic situation. Work to improve the complex continued in 2008, and the Ulyanovsk Mechanical Plant began mass production of a modern version of the 9K317 Buk-M2 complex, which began to enter service with the troops. In parallel, taking into account the requirements of foreign customers, an export version of the Buk-M2E, the Ural, was developed. Currently, the Buk air defense system is in service with Belarus, Azerbaijan, Venezuela, Georgia, Egypt, Cyprus, Serbia, Syria, Ukraine, and Finland.

Composition of the 9K317 Buk-M2 complex:- combat equipment - 9M317 anti-aircraft guided missiles - 9A317 and 9A318 self-propelled firing systems (towed) - 9A316 and 9A320 launchers - controls - 9S510 command post - 9S18M1-3 target detection radar - 9S36 missile illumination and guidance radar

The 9A317 self-propelled firing system is built on a GM-569 tracked chassis. During the combat operation of a self-propelled firing system, it detects, identifies, automatically tracks and recognizes the type of target, develops a flight mission, solves the launch problem, launches a missile, illuminates the target and transmits radio correction commands to the missile. The installation is capable of firing at targets both as part of an anti-aircraft missile system with target designation from a command post, and autonomously in a predetermined sector of responsibility. The complex can be transported without restrictions on speed and distance by rail, air and water transport.

"Buk-M3"

Currently, work is actively underway to create new military air defense systems, including the promising Buk-M3 air defense system. It is expected that the new complex will have 36 target channels and will be capable of hitting air targets flying at speeds of up to 3 km/s at a distance of up to 70 km and an altitude of up to 35 km, which will allow attacking highly maneuverable targets in conditions of strong radio countermeasures, hitting all existing aerodynamic targets, ground and surface targets, operational-tactical missiles. The modernized self-propelled firing system will receive a modified seven-wheel tracked chassis and 6 missiles in transport and launch containers.

The uniqueness of the Buk complex and all its modifications is that, with a significant size of the affected area in terms of range, height and parameters, the combat mission can be carried out autonomously using only one ground-based fire weapon - a self-propelled firing system. This quality makes it possible to ensure surprise in the firing of air targets from ambushes and autonomous operational change of combat position, which significantly increases the survivability of the installation.

This is a highly mobile, multi-purpose complex that ensures successful combat operations both in an interference-free environment and in conditions of intense radio countermeasures. In addition to aerodynamic targets of all types, it can hit a wide range of missiles: tactical ballistic and anti-radar, special aviation and cruise missiles. These air defense systems can strike surface ships (for example, destroyer and missile boat classes), as well as ground radio-contrast targets. The air defense system can be used for air defense of troops (military installations) in various forms of combat operations, administrative and industrial facilities and the territory of the country.

The main developer of the BUK-M2E air defense system is OJSC Scientific Research Institute named after V.V. Tikhomirov", the main manufacturer is Ulyanovsk Mechanical Plant. Both enterprises are part of the Almaz-Antey Air Defense Concern OJSC.

The BUK-M2E air defense system functionally consists of combat and technical means. The first include: command post (CP) 9S510E, target detection station (SOC) 9S18M1-3E; up to six fire groups of two types (self-propelled firing units (SOU) 9A317E with one 9A316E launch-loading unit (PZU) attached to them and illumination and guidance radar (RPN) 9S36E with two launch-loading units 9A316E attached to them).

The combat operations of the complex are controlled by a command post (CP), which receives information about the air situation from a target detection station (SOC) or a higher command post (VKP), and transmits target designations and control commands to fire groups (up to six groups) via technical communication lines. Each fire group has four target channels and eight firing channels. The shelling of tracked targets is carried out both by single and salvo launches of anti-aircraft guided missiles (SAM).

The highly effective 9M317 missile defense system with a solid-fuel rocket engine and combat equipment flexibly adapted to various types of targets, used in the complex, allows you to confidently hit targets in the entire range of the complex’s destruction zone: in range - 3.0-45 km, in height - 0-25 km. The use of modern computer systems, phased antenna arrays in combat air defense systems, and effective hardware and software implementation of complex special combat operation modes allow the complex to simultaneously track and hit up to 24 targets with a minimum time interval. The reaction time of the complex is 10-12 seconds. The probability of hitting aerodynamic targets with one missile is 0.9-0.95. The maximum speed of targeted tactical ballistic missiles is 1200 m/s. The detection zone and the probability of hitting small-sized and low-flying targets increases 1.5 times due to the use of an illumination and guidance radar (RPN 9S36E) as part of the complex, in which the antenna post rises to a height of 21 meters.

The placement of combat assets on high-speed self-propelled tracked or wheeled chassis, the minimum deployment and deployment time of the air defense system (no more than 5 minutes without an on-load tap changer), the ability to change the positions of the main combat assets with the equipment turned on in 20 seconds determine the high mobility of the complex.

The presence of interference protection channels that allow the complex's combat weapons to operate in intense active interference with a power of up to 1000 W/MHz, an effective optical-electronic system (OES), implemented on the basis of two matrix channels (thermal imaging and television) and allowing the main combat weapon of the complex, the SOU, to operate 24/7 9A317E in OES mode (virtually without microwave radiation), provide high noise immunity and survivability of the complex.

In 2009-2010 The BUK-M2E air defense system has undergone real testing under conditions as close as possible to combat, with multilateral, extensive flight and firing tests carried out at the training grounds of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation and foreign customers in the most difficult meteorological conditions (ambient temperature - up to +54 ° C, high dust content air, wind up to 27 m/s) with simulating the impact of active noise interference. These tests confirmed the high tactical and technical characteristics of the complex and its high reliability.

The complex's combat assets, including the 9M317 missile defense system, contain significant modernization capabilities in order to improve their tactical and technical characteristics, including in connection with additional customer requirements.

The BUK-M2E air defense system is noticeably superior in its tactical and technical characteristics to existing foreign analogues: the KS-1A air defense system (China), Hawk (USA), NASAMS (Norway), Spayder (Israel), SAMP-T (Eurosam), Akash ( India). The complex is in high demand on the international arms market and in the segment of medium-range military air defense systems and is undoubtedly one of the best in the world.

Modernized Shilka anti-aircraft gun. The 23-mm quad anti-aircraft self-propelled gun (ZSU) “Shilka” is a short-range air defense weapon. It is designed for air defense of combat formations of troops, columns on the march, stationary objects and railway trains from enemy air attacks at altitudes up to 1500 m and ranges up to 2500 m. The ZSU can be used to destroy mobile ground and surface targets at ranges up to 2000 m, and targets dropped by parachute.

Having successfully passed combat testing in various regions of the world, the Shilka self-propelled gun, by today’s criteria, has high firepower and tactical mobility, while at the same time it has an established and extensive structure for repairs and personnel training. But time, of course, demanded the need to modernize the Shilka self-propelled gun.

The Ulyanovsk Mechanical Plant carried out work to modernize the Shilka self-propelled gun. The updated ZSU has better tactical and technical characteristics compared to earlier modifications. A more advanced fire control system has been introduced on it: data reception and transmission equipment has been introduced for the exchange of ZSU information with a higher command post; the method of processing secondary information has been changed - from analog to digital; the radar station was replaced by a new radar of the same frequency range; all equipment (except for the transmitter) has been converted to a solid-state element base; the noise protection system and range finder have been converted to a digital information processing method; Instead of an analog computing device, gun and sighting coordinate converters, a high-speed digital computing system with a large-capacity memory is used, made on a modern commercially produced digital computer.

The built-in simulator mode provides the ability to effectively train radar operators without the use of aircraft. The introduction of a set of equipment into the ZSU that allows firing of anti-aircraft missiles of the Igla type made it possible to increase the range of hitting targets to 5 km.

Anti-aircraft self-propelled gun "Tunguska-M1". The Tunguska self-propelled gun was developed in the 70s of the 20th century. It is designed to detect, identify nationality and destroy aircraft, helicopters (including hovering and suddenly appearing) and other low-flying targets when operating on the move, from a standstill and from short stops. The ZSU ensures the destruction of ground and surface targets and targets dropped by parachute.

Many years of experience in operating the ZSU have shown that it has insufficient noise immunity when firing missile weapons at targets equipped with optical interference. In addition, it is not equipped with equipment for automated reception and implementation of target designation from a higher command post, which reduces the effectiveness of the combat use of a ZSU battery during a massive enemy raid.

That is why the Tunguska-M1 self-propelled gun system has implemented a number of technical solutions that have expanded its capabilities. A new missile with a pulsed optical transponder was used and the missile control equipment was modernized, which made it possible to significantly increase noise immunity from optical interference and increase the likelihood of hitting targets operating under the cover of this interference. Equipping the missile with a radar proximity fuse has significantly increased its effectiveness in combating small targets. Increasing the operating time of the missile elements increased the missile’s range of hitting targets from 8,000 to 10,000 m.

The ZSU has introduced equipment for automated reception and processing of external target designation, which is interfaced via a radio channel with the battery command post. This made it possible from the command post to automatically distribute targets between the battery's SPAAGs (the battery includes 6 SPAAGs), which significantly increases the effectiveness of combat use during a massive attack on targets. The ZSU transmits information about actions on the target to the command post.

A system for “unloading” the gunner has also been introduced. With its help, automatic, high-speed, two-dimensional tracking of the target with an optical sight is carried out. This significantly simplified the process of semi-automatic target tracking by the gunner while simultaneously increasing the accuracy of tracking and reducing the dependence of the effectiveness of the combat use of missile weapons on the level of professional training of the gunner.

The ZSU has been equipped with television and thermal imaging channels with automatic tracking, which ensures a passive target tracking mode and 24-hour use of missile weapons. The modernized digital computing system uses a new computer with greater speed and large memory capacity, which has increased the frequency of problem solving and reduced calculation errors. At the same time, the functionality of the Central Military District has expanded in solving combat and control missions.

"Buk-M3" (factory code 9K317M) is a medium-range air defense system. According to NATO classification, these air defense systems are called SA-17Grizzly. The highly mobile multifunctional complex is designed to solve the following combat missions: destroying aircraft of all types in all ranges of their practical use, firing at radio-contrast ground targets and hitting surface targets in conditions of intense counteraction, both fire and electronic.

Military experts classify the complex as the main means of the military component of the air defense/air defense of the Russian Federation in the theater of operations and consider it as a system-forming one. On the tactical side, it is complemented by a short-range complex such as “Tor-M2” (currently) or “Pantsir-S1” (in the near future). From the operational-tactical side - long-range air defense systems of all classes in service. The Buk-M3, as the main means of countering missiles flying at ultra-low altitude, demonstrates the best efficiency-cost ratio in comparison with all analogues of Russian and foreign production.

Peculiarities.

The air defense system is equipped with the latest digital control system, which provides not only the solution of combat missions, but also operation in the training simulator mode for training and training crews. The telethermal imaging system has replaced teleoptical sights and is used to detect targets, capture them and passively track them in automatic mode. The documentation system has been replaced by an integrated objective control system, created on the basis of modern software using the latest digital control system.

The signal processing equipment and display equipment are also computerized and equipped with LCD monitors. For communications, the complex is equipped with modern digital communications equipment that ensures uninterrupted exchange of both voice information and encoded target distribution and target designation data.

Each division armed with the Buk-M3 air defense system has 36 target channels and is equipped with the latest model missiles with active seekers. The complex has all-aspect visibility due to the fact that the new rocket has a vertical launch. The 9Р31М missile used to equip the complex is capable of destroying all currently existing aerodynamic targets, including highly maneuverable ones, in conditions of strong electronic countermeasures, as well as surface and ground ones. The on-board systems of the Buk-M3 complex are created on a completely updated element base. When supplied to the Russian Navy, the complex is called “Hurricane”. The export name of the marine version is “Calm”.

Specifications

Video

Today we will get acquainted with the Buk anti-aircraft missile system, which is considered one of the best representatives of its class on the world stage. The vehicle is capable of destroying enemy aircraft and missiles, ships and buildings. Let's also consider the design options and differences between modifications.

What is the Buk anti-aircraft missile system?

The vehicle in question (the Buk army anti-aircraft missile system), according to the GRAU index, is designated as 9K37, and is known to NATO and United States specialists as the SA-11 Gadfly. The equipment is classified as an anti-aircraft complex on a self-propelled chassis. Missiles are used to destroy targets. The complex is designed to destroy enemy aircraft, as well as other aerodynamic targets at low and medium altitudes, within the range of 30-18,000 meters. When created, it was supposed to effectively combat maneuvering objects that are capable of providing intense radio countermeasures.

History of the creation of the Buk air defense system

Work on creating the machine began in January 197272, the start was given by a decree of the government of the Soviet Union. It was assumed that the new car would replace its predecessor, the Cube. The developer of the system was the Tikhomirov Research Institute of Instrument Engineering, which at that time was managed by A.A. Rastov. It is noteworthy that the new vehicle was supposed to be put into service by the army literally three years after the start of development, which significantly complicated the task for the designers.

To make it possible to complete the work in such a short time, it was divided into two stages:

1. First, a deep modification of the “Cube” was put into operation - the Kub-M3 air defense system, index 9A38. A vehicle on a self-propelled chassis with 9M38 missiles was supposed to be inserted into each battery. In the course of the work, a complex with the M4 mark in the name was created, which was put into service in 1978;
2. The second step implied the final commissioning of the complex, which included: a command post, a target detection station in the air, the self-propelled gun itself, as well as a launch-loading system and a missile defense system (anti-aircraft guided missile).

The designers coped with the task, and testing of both machines began already in 1977. For two years, the capabilities and potential of the systems were assessed at the Emba training ground, after which the installations began to enter service with the country.

It is worth noting that, in addition to the land variation of the system, an installation for the Navy was also created on a single missile defense system. The tracked chassis was created by the machine-building plant in Mytishchi (MMZ), the missiles were developed by the Sverdlovsk Novator bureau. The target designation/tracking station was designed at NIIIP MRP.

Operating principle of the Buk missile system

The characteristics of the complex make it possible to effectively combat various air targets whose speed does not exceed 830 m/s, maneuvering with overloads of up to 12 units. It was believed that the vehicle could even fight Lance ballistic missiles.

During development, it was intended to achieve a twofold increase in the operating efficiency of existing air defense systems by increasing the channel capacity when working with aerodynamic purposes. A necessary part of the work was the automation of processes, starting with the detection of a potential enemy and ending with its destruction.

It was planned to add an innovative installation to each battery of the Kubov-M3 regiment, which, at minimal cost, would increase the capabilities of the unit significantly. The expenditure on modernization amounted to no more than 30% of the initial investments in formation, but the number of channels doubled (increased to 10), the number of missiles ready to carry out combat missions increased by a quarter - to 75.

It is worth noting that based on the results of testing the systems, the following characteristics were obtained:

• in autonomous mode, aircraft at a three-kilometer altitude could be detected at 65-77 kilometers;
• low-flying targets (30-100 m) were detected from 32-41 km;
• helicopters were spotted from 21-35 km;
• in a centralized mode, the reconnaissance/guidance installation did not allow the full potential of the complex to be demonstrated, so aircraft at an altitude of 3-7 km could only be detected at a range of 44 km;
• under similar conditions, low-flying aircraft were detected from 21-28 km.

Processing targets by the system in offline mode takes no more than 27 seconds, the probability of hitting a target with one projectile reached 70-93 percent. At the same time, the weapons in question could destroy up to six enemy targets. Moreover, the developed missiles are capable of operating effectively not only against enemy aircraft and strike weapons, but also against surface and ground targets.

The guidance method is combined: when entering the flight path - the inertial method, adjustments are made from the command post or the installation itself. At the final stage, immediately before destroying the target, a semi-active mode using automation is activated.

The last two options became possible to destroy thanks to the laser rangefinder, which appeared on the military modification M1-2. It is possible to process objects with microwave radiation turned off, which has a positive effect on the survivability of the entire system, its secrecy from the enemy, as well as immunity from interference. The coordinate support mode introduced in this modification is aimed at combating interference.

The effectiveness of the installation lies in its high mobility: it takes only 5 minutes to deploy from a traveling position to a combat position. The system moves on a specially designed tracked chassis; there are options with a wheelbase. In the first version, on highways and rough terrain, the car develops up to 65 km/h, the supply of fuel tanks allows you to march up to 500 km and still retain the necessary volume for work for two hours.

The complex for coordinated work is equipped with the following tools:

• Communication – a channel for uninterrupted reception/transmission of information is formed;
• Orientation/navigation systems, in the shortest possible time, a location reference is formed;
• Equipment for autonomous power supply of the entire complex;
• Equipment to ensure protection and life in conditions of the use of nuclear or chemical weapons.

For combat duty, autonomous power systems are used; if necessary, it is possible to connect external sources. The total duration of work without stopping is a day.

Design of the 9K37 complex

To ensure the functionality of the complex, it includes four types of machines. There are attached technical means for which the Ural-43203 and ZIL-131 chassis are used. The bulk of the systems under consideration are based on caterpillar tracks. However, some installation options were equipped with wheels.

The combat assets of the complex are as follows:

1. One command post coordinating the actions of the entire group;
2. A target detection station, which not only identifies a potential enemy, but identifies its identity and transmits the received data to the command post;
3. A self-propelled firing system that ensures the destruction of the enemy in a certain sector in a stationary position or autonomously. In the process of work, it detects targets, determines the identity of the threat, its capture and firing;
4. A launch-loading installation capable of launching projectiles, as well as loading additional transportable ammunition. Vehicles of this type are supplied to formations at the rate of 3 to 2 self-propelled guns.

The Buk anti-aircraft missile system uses 9M317 missiles, which are classified as anti-aircraft guided missiles. The shells ensure the destruction of the enemy with a high probability in a wide range: air targets, surface and ground targets, subject to the creation of dense interference.

The command post is designated by the index 9С470; it is capable of communicating simultaneously with six installations, one target detection system and receiving tasks from higher command.

The 9S18 detection station is a three-dimensional radar operating in the centimeter range. It is capable of detecting a potential enemy 160 km away, and surveys the space in a regular or sector mode.

Modifications of the Buk complex

As aviation and air defense systems modernized, the complex was modernized to increase efficiency and speed. At the same time, the system’s own means of protection were improved, allowing for increased survivability in combat conditions. Let's look at modifications of the Buk.

SAM Buk-M1 (9K37M1)

Modernization of the system began virtually immediately after it was put into service. In 1982, an improved version of the vehicle with the index 9K37 M1, using the 9M38M1 missile, entered service. The technique differed from the basic version in the following aspects:

1. The affected area has expanded significantly;
2. It became possible to distinguish between ballistic missiles, airplanes and helicopters;
3. Countermeasures against enemy missile defense have been improved.

SAM Buk-M1-2 (9K37M1-2)

By 1997, the next modification of the Buk air defense system appeared - index 9K37M1-2 with a new guided missile 9M317. Innovations affected almost all aspects of the system, which made it possible to hit Lance-class missiles. The damage radius increased to 45 km horizontally and 25 km altitude.

SAM Buk-M2 (9K317)

The 9K317 is the result of a deep modernization of the base unit, which has become significantly more effective in all respects, in particular, the probability of hitting enemy aircraft has reached 80 percent. The collapse of the Union ruled out mass production, but in 2008 the vehicle nevertheless entered service with the Armed Forces.

SAM Buk-M3 (9K317M)

New for 2016 - the Buk M3 has received higher characteristics, has been developed since 2007. Now there are 6 missiles on board in closed containers, it works automatically, after launch the projectile reaches the target on its own, and the probability of hitting the enemy is almost 100 percent, with the exception of the millionth chance of a miss .

SAM Buk-M2E (9K317E)

The export version is a modification of the M2 on the Minsk AZ chassis.

SAM Buk-MB (9K37MB)

This option is a base developed by the military-industrial complex of the Soviet Union. It was presented by Belarusian engineers in 2005. Improved radio-electronic equipment, resistance to interference and ergonomics of crew workstations.

Performance characteristics

Considering the scale of modernization and the abundance of modifications, each model has its own tactical and technical characteristics. Combat effectiveness is clearly demonstrated by the probability of hitting various targets:

Anti-aircraft missile system "Buk-M1"

Anti-aircraft missile system "Buk-M1-2"

Parameter:	Meaning:
Aircraft	3-45
	No more than 20
Cruise missile	No more than 26
Ship	No more than 25
Target engagement altitude, km
Aircraft	0,015-22
"Lance"	2-16
Airplane	90-95
Helicopter	30-60
Cruise missile	50-70
	22
	1100

Buk-M2 anti-aircraft missile system

Parameter:	Meaning:
Enemy engagement distance, km
Aircraft	3-50
Ballistic missile, Lance class	No more than 20
Cruise missile	No more than 26
Ship	No more than 25
Target engagement altitude, km
Aircraft	0,01-25
"Lance"	2-16
Probability of destroying the enemy with one missile, %
Airplane	90-95
Helicopter	70-80
Cruise missile	70-80
Number of targets fired at simultaneously, pcs.	24
Maximum speed of the fired object, m/s	1100

Buk-M3 anti-aircraft missile system

Parameter:	Meaning:
Enemy engagement distance, km
Aircraft	2-70
Ballistic missile, Lance class	2-70
Cruise missile	2-70
Ship	2-70
Target engagement altitude, km
Aircraft	0,015-35
"Lance"	0,015-35
Probability of destroying the enemy with one missile, %
Airplane	99
Number of targets fired at simultaneously, pcs.	36
Maximum speed of the fired object, m/s	3000

Combat use

Over the long history of being on combat duty in various countries, the Buk missile system has seen its share of war. However, a number of episodes of its use create a contradictory picture regarding its capabilities:

1. During the Georgian-Abkhaz conflict, an Abkhaz L-39 attack aircraft was destroyed, which led to the death of the commander of the state's air defense. According to experts, the incident occurred due to misidentification of the target by the Russian installation;
2. A division of these vehicles took part in the first Chechen war, which made it possible to evaluate their potential in real conditions;
3. The Georgian-South Ossetian conflict of 2008 was remembered by the official recognition by the Russian side of the loss of four aircraft: Tu-22M and three Su-25. According to reliable information, all of them were victims of Buk-M1 vehicles used by the Ukrainian division in Georgia;
4. As for controversial cases, the first is the destruction of a Boeing 777 aircraft in the east of the Donetsk region. In 2014, a civil aviation aircraft was destroyed, according to official data from the international commission, by a Buk complex. However, opinions differ regarding the ownership of the air defense system. The Ukrainian side claims that the system was controlled by the 53rd Russian Air Defense Brigade, however, there is no reliable evidence of this. Should you believe the accusing party?
5. There is also conflicting information coming from Syria, where many Russian-made air defense systems, including the vehicles in question, were used in 2018. The Russian Ministry of Defense reports 29 missiles fired by Buk missiles, and only five of them missed. The United States says none of the missiles fired hit their targets. Who to believe?

Despite the provocations and disinformation, the Buk complex is a worthy opponent to any modern helicopters/planes, which has been proven in practice. The complex is used not only by Russia, but also as part of combat units in Belarus, Azerbaijan, Venezuela, Georgia, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Cyprus, Syria, and Ukraine.