The end of the Cold War and the collapse of the USSR for some time reduced the threat of a large-scale military conflict. Against this background, the countries participating in the global confrontation have experienced serious reductions in their armed forces and military budgets. It seemed to many that after the collapse of the communist ideology, humanity had finally entered the era of peaceful coexistence and the supremacy of international law.
Against this background, the military and political leadership of many states has lost interest in defensive anti-aircraft systems. Work on the creation of new and modernization of existing complexes slowed down or stopped altogether. Moreover, in order to save money, many air defense systems with a large residual resource and modernization potential were decommissioned.
To a greater extent, this affected the armies of the Eastern European countries, former participants in the Warsaw Pact and the former republics of the USSR. In the 70s and 80s, dozens of firing positions of medium and long-range air defense systems were deployed in the states of the "Eastern Bloc", which formed a kind of air defense barrier protecting the western borders of the Soviet Union.
Satellite image of Google earth: the layout of the positions of the air defense systems of the times of the Cold War in Europe
At that time, not much less anti-aircraft systems were deployed on the territory of the European allies of the United States, especially in terms of the number of air defense systems, West Germany stood out.
Satellite image of Google earth: SAM deployed in Europe as of 2010
Currently, the number of deployed positions of anti-aircraft systems in Europe has decreased significantly. Many former allies of the USSR, having changed their orientation, switched to Western weapons standards.
Satellite image of Google earth: the position of the Polish C-125 air defense system in the region of Gdansk
The exception is Poland, where the modernized Soviet S-125 air defense systems have survived, Romania with the old S-75 in the Bucharest region and Albania with their unique Chinese HQ-2 for Europe (a copy of the C-75).
Polish air defense system S-125 on the T-55 chassis
The rest of the states either finally removed from service the old Soviet complexes, or transferred them to "storage". However, in some European countries, Russian long-range air defense systems will remain in service for a long time. Air defense systems of export modifications S-300PMU and PMU-1 are available in Bulgaria, Slovakia and Greece.
European countries that have anti-aircraft systems in their arsenals are almost entirely armed with American air defense systems. In some places, late modifications of the Hawk air defense system are still in service, but their write-off is a matter of the near future. The last positions of Nike-Hercules long-range air defense systems deployed in Italy and Turkey were eliminated in the early 2000s. The USA is actively promoting the Patriot air defense system to replace the outdated anti-aircraft systems. So, under pressure from the Americans, Turkey disavowed the decision to purchase the Chinese HQ-9 air defense system.
SAM Patriot PAC-3 US Army deployed in Turkey
In April 2015, Warsaw officially approved the purchase of the American Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems as part of the project to create the Vistula national air defense system. In total, Poland plans to purchase eight Patriot air defense missile systems for more than $ 4.3 billion.
Satellite image of Google earth: the position of the Patriot air defense system in Germany
Currently, in Europe, Patriot complexes are permanently deployed in Germany, the Netherlands, Greece, Turkey and Spain.
In addition to American-made air defense systems in Italy, the modernized Spada 2000 air defense systems are used to cover air bases.
Satellite image of Google earth: layout of the "Spada 2000" air defense system in Italy
France, which until recently pursued an independent policy of military development, does not have medium and long-range anti-aircraft systems on alert. Air defense of the country's territory is provided by fighter aircraft. However, from time to time, not far from military air bases and important centers of industry and energy, Crotale-NG short-range air defense systems are being deployed in pre-prepared positions.
Satellite image of Google earth: SAM position of the Krotal air defense missile system near Orleans
After the start of "market reforms", the Russian leadership began a landslide reduction of the armed forces, which fully affected the air defense units. As of 1990, the USSR air defense air defense system had more than 6500 medium and long-range air defense missile systems, of which more than 1700 C-300P air defense missile systems. Most of this inheritance went to Russia.
Already after 5 years, the number of anti-aircraft systems carrying combat duty decreased several times. Of course, the decommissioning of obsolete types of air defense systems was inevitable, but along with the old ones in our country, complexes that had an even large residual resource and modernization potential were written off.
At that time, it would be quite reasonable to extend the operation with the subsequent phased modernization of the long-range S-200D air defense systems, placing them on the border - coastal areas (the European north of the Russian Federation and the Far East) where the greatest activity of reconnaissance and combat aviation of "potential partners" is observed. Even today, this air defense system remains unsurpassed in terms of the range of destruction, the mass production of new long-range missiles 40N6E for the S-400 air defense system, which should have a range of up to 400 km, has not yet been established. But in the 90s, the then leadership of the Russian Federation was more concerned not about protecting the airspace, but about how to please the "American partners".
This fully applies to the low-altitude medium-range air defense system S-125. Later modifications of this complex could be effectively operated until now, performing tasks of covering long-range air defense systems and protecting objects in the depths of the territory of the Russian Federation. The S-125 air defense system has far from exhausted its capabilities, subject to modernization, it is capable of successfully performing tasks to combat tactical aircraft, cruise missiles and drones, complementing more modern and long-range systems.
Satellite image of Google earth: positions of the C-125 air defense missile system in Armenia
Export programs for the modernization of the S-125 have been successfully implemented in Russia. There is even competition for proposals from various Russian manufacturers: Almaz-Anteya offers the Pechora-2A variant, and Defense Systems OJSC offers the S-125-2M Pechora-2M variant. To date, not only have the old systems been modernized for these projects in a number of countries, but Russian enterprises have also signed a number of contracts for the supply of modified systems to countries where the S-125 was not in service (Myanmar, Venezuela).
Mobile PU SAM S-125-2M "Pechora-2M" Air Defense of Venezuela
Until now, in many countries where Soviet-made air defense systems were supplied, their operation continues. This provides ample opportunities for their modernization and delivery of new complexes. However, for this it is necessary to stop looking back at the opinion of Washington.
Satellite image of Google earth: SAM position of the C-200VE air defense system in Iran
In the 90s, there was a global trend of declining interest in air defense systems, a slowdown in the pace of production and development of new complexes. Contrary to this trend in Israel, at the same time, a number of new interesting samples were created that meet the highest international standards. This is due to the fact that by the mid-80s, the Israeli military-industrial complex had reached the required technological level, and the designers-developers had gained some experience. In addition, Israel, unlike post-Soviet Russia, has never economized on scientific fundamental research and generously paid highly qualified specialists, including those from other countries. The development of Israel's own air defense and missile defense systems was spurred on by the traditionally hostile Arab environment and regular rocket attacks. A particular threat was posed by the OTRs available in neighboring countries and the MRBMs being developed capable of carrying warheads with weapons of mass destruction. Therefore, special emphasis was placed on the development of anti-missile systems.
Arrow anti-missile test launch
In 1990, the first test launch of the Arrow interceptor missile took place, created in conscience by the specialists of the American corporation "Lockheed - Martin" and the Israeli firm IAI. An improved version of the Arrow-2 as part of the Khetz missile defense system was deployed in March 2000 at the Palmachim airbase, south of Tel Aviv. The second anti-missile battery was deployed and put on alert in October 2002 at Ein Shemer airbase. The deployed batteries, which are directly subordinate to the Israel Air Defense Command, provide cover for up to 85% of the country's territory. The Arrow-2 interceptor missiles are designed to defeat enemy missiles in the stratosphere. The Arrow-2 system is capable of detecting and tracking up to 12 targets simultaneously, as well as directing up to two interceptor missiles at one of them, capable of speeds up to 2.5 km per second.
Satellite image of Google earth: layout of long-range anti-aircraft and anti-missile systems in Israel as of 2010
The territory of Israel is very well covered by a long-range air defense system, today it is the only state, most of whose territory is protected by a centralized missile defense system. Taking into account the relatively small area of the state of Israel, in terms of the density of the air defense system, it gets tired only in the Moscow region.
The Iron Dome tactical missile defense system is designed to protect against unguided tactical missiles at ranges from 4 to 70 kilometers. The first battery went on alert in March 2011.
Iron Dome launches a rocket during Operation Pillar of Cloud
In mid-2014, 9 batteries were on alert throughout Israel. By the end of 2014, more than 1,000 rockets had been successfully shot down by the Iron Dome batteries. The number of successfully intercepted targets is estimated at 85%. The system is capable of detecting a threat in 100% of cases, but the complex did not always manage to destroy several simultaneously launched shells.
In 2012, each launch of an Iron Dome rocket cost US $ 30-40 thousand, which is many times higher than the cost of any possible intercepted missile. Thus, even with 100% effectiveness, intercepting a weapon of attack is much more expensive than the cost of the weapon itself. But the economic efficiency of the system lies in the fact that earlier, when a missile hit a residential area, the state paid at least one million shekels (about $ 250,000) compensation to the city and its residents.
During the "Second Lebanese War" in July-August 2006, about 4,000 rockets were fired at Israel, 1,000 of which hit populated areas. Direct damage alone amounted to about $ 1.5 billion. The use of the Iron Dome would have cost $ 50-100 million. The same can be seen in the example of Operation Cast Lead. Thus, in a prolonged conflict, the cost of missiles is only 3-7% of the cost of possible damage. Confirmation of the effectiveness of the Iron Dome can be seen with the naked eye in the skies over Israeli cities.
In 2013, the developers of the Iron Dome reported that they managed to significantly reduce the price of interceptor missiles - to several thousand dollars. The main cost reduction was achieved by simplifying the missile guidance system, which, however, did not affect its effectiveness.
In November 2012, representatives of the Israel Defense Forces announced the successful testing of the new anti-missile defense system "David's Sling". The missile defense system, designed to intercept medium-range missiles, should enter service with the Israeli army in 2015.
The basis of the complex is the Stunner anti-missile. This two-stage missile is equipped with two guidance systems (optical-electronic and radar). The Sling of David is capable of striking ballistic targets with a range of 70 to 300 kilometers. The new system is designed to combat long-range missiles missed by the Hets missile defense systems.
The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 revealed the weak defense of the US territory from air attacks. The air defense system, built on the basis of interceptor fighters, was unable to fend off all threats.
After terrorist attacks, which used hijacked civilian airliners around a number of important sites, including the White House, the Avenger short-range air defense system was deployed in Washington.
Short-range air defense system "Avenger"
Mass deliveries of this complex to the troops began in the early 90s. "Avenger" is designed to engage air targets at ranges of 0.5-5.5 km, heights of 0.5-3.8 km on a collision course and in pursuit. The complex is equipped with a SAM from the Stinger MANPADS with a thermal homing head.
The placement of the Avengers in the city center immediately after the terrorist attacks was rather a demonstration and psychological step designed to end the panic and calm public opinion. This complex could not preemptively intercept the multi-ton airliner at a safe distance from the protected object. In this regard, in the vicinity of Washington in May 2004, three SLAMRAAM air defense missile systems were deployed. Thus, the capital became the only object in the United States that is protected by medium-range air defense systems, which are on alert on an ongoing basis.
Satellite image of Google earth: layout of the SLAMRAAM air defense system in the vicinity of Washington
The SLAMRAAM air defense system is an American version of the Norwegian-American NASAMS complex. The jointly developed complex, created using the American AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missile system, entered service with the Norwegian Air Force in the mid-90s. The SLAMRAAM air defense system is capable of hitting air targets at a distance of up to 40 km and at an altitude of up to 16 km.
PU SAM SLAMRAAM
The SLAMRAAM air defense system is an American version of the Norwegian-American NASAMS complex. The jointly developed complex, created using the American AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missile system, entered service with the Norwegian Air Force in the mid-90s. The SLAMRAAM air defense system is capable of hitting air targets at a distance of up to 40 km and at an altitude of up to 16 km.
In the first decade of the 21st century, the armed forces of many states expressed a desire to update the existing anti-aircraft systems. This was mainly due to the destabilizing role of the United States and the unleashing of a number of regional conflicts by this country. The intensification of the development and procurement of air defense systems is consistent with the continuous increase in the role of aviation and air attack weapons characteristic of modern wars and conflicts. And also an increase in demand for means designed to protect against attacks from tactical ballistic missiles and operational-tactical ballistic missiles. The time has come to replace systems and air defense systems of previous generations due to their massive and complete obsolescence. In this regard, in many countries, work has intensified to create their own medium and long-range air defense systems. Along with the increase in defense capability, the independent development and production of anti-aircraft systems can increase the national scientific and technical potential, create new jobs and reduce dependence on foreign arms manufacturers.
In 2000, the French VL MICA short-range air defense system was presented at the Asian Aerospace exhibition in Singapore. The VL MICA air defense system is developed on the basis of the MICA air-to-air guided missile. The complex is compact and highly efficient. The typical composition of the ground-based VL MICA air defense system consists of four launchers, a command post of the complex and a detection radar.
SAM VL MICA
The modular design of the MICA missile makes it possible to have weapons with various homing systems in the ammunition of the complex and to use their advantages depending on the combat situation. The MICA missile can be equipped with an active pulse-Doppler radar seeker (MICA-EM) or thermal imaging (MICA-IR). The maximum firing range is 20 km, the maximum target height is 10 km.
At the beginning of the 2000s, Israel completed the development of a mobile short-range and medium-range Spyder air defense system intended for air defense of ground forces and infrastructure from attacks by aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles. The complex ensures the defeat of single and group targets at any time of the day.
Mobile PU SAM Spyder
SAM Spyder belongs to the family of anti-aircraft systems that use aircraft missiles as a means of destruction. A feature of the complex is the presence in its ammunition of missiles with various homing systems - a Derby guided missile with an active radar seeker and a Phyton missile with a thermal seeker. This combination provides all-weather, stealth and combat effectiveness of the complex at a distance of up to 35 km.
The complex includes: a control point, a radar station, self-propelled launchers with four TPK missiles and transport-loading vehicles. The elements of the air defense system are installed on the chassis of an all-terrain vehicle.
The Israeli anti-aircraft missile system "Spider" is actively promoting in the international arms market. Currently, in the SPYDER-SR version, it is in service with the ground forces of Georgia, India, Singapore and Azerbaijan.
One of the latest Israeli developments was the Barak-8 air defense system, which is a version of the ship complex adapted for land air defense. Rocket "Barak-8" is a two-stage solid-propellant missile defense system with a length of 4.5 m, equipped with an active homing system. The missile is launched using a vertical launcher and is capable of intercepting a target at a range of 70-80 km in difficult weather conditions at any time of the day. After launch, the missile receives target designation from the guidance radar. On approaching the target, the missile defense system activates the radar seeker.
The SAMP-T air defense system was created jointly by the three European states France, Italy and Great Britain. This development involved the creation of a universal land and sea-based system based on Aster 15/30 missiles, capable of fighting both aviation and ballistic targets. The design and testing of the system lasted over 20 years, and only reached the home stretch in the 2000s. Prior to this, the characteristics of the system, and its fate, were very vague.
Test launch of SAM Aster 30
As a result, the developers managed to create an air defense system that can compete with the American Patriot air defense system. Tests that took place in 2011-2014 confirmed the ability of SAMP-T air defense systems to fight both air targets at a range of 3-100 km, flying at an altitude of 25 km and intercept ballistic missiles at a range of 3-35 km.
SAMP-T air defense missile system is capable of 360-degree circular fire, has a modular design and highly maneuverable missiles. This system is already in trial operation in France and Italy.
What is called the Franco-Italian SAMP-T system "steps on the heels" of the MEADS air defense system. The system is being developed in the interests of three states: the United States, Germany and Italy. To date, the United States has invested $ 1.5 billion in the development of the complex. The MEADS system is capable of firing two types of missiles: PAC-3 MSE and IRIS-T SL. The first is a modernized version of the PAC-3 missile and is used in the Patriot air defense system, the second is a ground-based version of the German IRIS-T melee air-to-air missile. The fully equipped unit consists of one all-round radar, two fire control vehicles, six mobile launchers with 12 missiles.
SAM MEADS
According to preliminary technical specifications, the new anti-aircraft and missile defense system will be capable of striking both aircraft and medium-range tactical ballistic missiles with a range of up to 1,000 kilometers. Initially, MEADS was created to replace the Patriot air defense system. Currently, the anti-aircraft system is in the stage of fine-tuning and control tests. It is expected that the MEADS air defense missile system may become operational in 2018.
