S-300
Encyclopedia
The S-300 is a series of Russia
n long range surface-to-air missile
systems produced by NPO Almaz
, all based on the initial S-300P version. The S-300 system was developed to defend against aircraft and cruise missile
s for the Soviet Air Defence Forces. Subsequent variations were developed to intercept ballistic missile
s. The S-300 was jointly produced by Almaz with Samsung Group
of South Korea
since 1993.
The S-300 system was first deployed by the Soviet Union
in 1979, designed for the air defense of large industrial and administrative facilities, military bases, and control of airspace against enemy strike aircraft.
The project-managing developer of the S-300 is Russian Almaz corporation (government owned, aka "KB-1") which is currently a part of "Almaz-Antei" Air Defense Concern. S-300 uses missiles developed by MKB "Fakel" design bureau
(a separate government corporation, aka "OKB-2").
The S-300 is regarded as one of the most potent anti-aircraft missile systems
currently fielded. Its radars have the ability to simultaneously track up to 100 targets while engaging up to 12. S-300 deployment time is five minutes. The S-300 missiles are sealed round
s and require no maintenance over their lifetime. An evolved version of the S-300 system is the S-400 (NATO reporting name
SA-21), entering limited service in 2004.
s, improved radar
s, better resistance to countermeasures
, longer range and better capability against short-range ballistic missiles or targets flying at very low altitude. There are currently three main variations.
С-300П, NATO reporting name
SA-10 Grumble) is the original version of the S-300 system which became operational in 1978. In 1987 over 80 of these sites were active, mainly in the area around Moscow. The P suffix stand for PVO-Strany (country air defence system). An S-300PT unit consists of a 36D6 (NATO reporting name TIN SHIELD) surveillance radar, a 30N6 (FLAP LID) fire control system and 5P85-1 launch vehicles. The 5P85-1 vehicle is a semi-trailer truck
. Usually a 76N6 (CLAM SHELL) low altitude detection radar is also a part of the unit.
This system broke substantial new ground, including the use of a phased array radar and multiple engagements on the same Fire-control system
(FCS). Nevertheless, it had some limitations. It took over one hour to set up this semi-mobile system for firing and the hot vertical launch method employed scorched the TEL
.
It was originally intended to fit the Track Via Missile (TVM
) guidance system onto this model. However, the TVM system had problems tracking targets below 500 m. Rather than accept the limitation, the Soviets decided that the tracking of low altitude targets was a must and decided to use a pure command-guidance system until the TVM head was ready. This allowed the minimum engagement altitude to be set at 25 m.
Improvements to the S-300P have resulted in several major subversions for both the internal and the export market. The S-300PT-1 and S-300PT-1A (SA-10b/c) are incremental upgrades of the original S300PT system. They introduce the 5V55KD missile and the cold launch method thereafter employed. Time to readiness was reduced to 30 minutes (broadly comparable to Patriot) and trajectory optimization
s allowed the 5V55KD to reach a range of 75 km.
The S-300PS/S-300PM (Russian С-300ПC/С-300ПМ, NATO reporting name SA-10d/e) was introduced in 1985 and is the only version thought to have been fitted with a nuclear warhead. This model saw the introduction of the modern TEL and mobile radar and command-post vehicles that were all based on the MAZ-7910 8x8 truck. This model also featured the new 5V55R missiles which increased maximum engagement range to 90 km (55.9 mi) and introduced a terminal semi-active radar homing (SARH) guidance mode. The surveillance radar of these systems was designated 30N6. Also introduced with this version was the distinction between self propelled and towed TELs. The towed TEL is designated 5P85T. Mobile TELs were the 5P85S and 5P85D. The 5P85D was a "slave" TEL, being controlled by a 5P85S "master" TEL. The "master" TEL is identifiable thanks to the large equipment container behind the cabin; in the "slave" TEL this area is not enclosed and is used for cable or spare tyre storage.
The next modernisation, called the S-300PMU (Russian С-300ПМУ, US DoD designation SA-10f) was introduced in 1992 for the export market and featured the upgraded 5V55U missile which still utilised the intermediate SARH terminal guidance method and smaller warhead of the 5V55R but increased the engagement envelope to give this missile roughly the same range and altitude capabilities as the newer 48N6 missile (max. range 150 km/93 mi). The radars were also upgraded, with the surveillance radar for the S-300PMU being designated 64N6 (BIG BIRD) and the illumination and guidance radar being designated 30N6-1 in the GRAU index.
The S-300F Fort (Russian С-300Ф Форт, DoD designation SA-N-6, F suffix for Flot, Russian for fleet) was introduced in 1984 as the original ship-based (naval) version of the S-300P system developed by Altair
with the new 5V55RM missile with range extended to 7–90 km (4–56 mi, equal to 3.8–50 nautical miles) and maximum target speed up to Mach
4 while engagement altitude was reduced to 25–25,000 m (100-82,000 ft). The naval version utilises the TOP SAIL or TOP STEER, TOP PAIR and 3R41 Volna (TOP DOME) radar and utilises command guidance with a terminal semi-active radar homing
(SARH) mode. Its first installation and sea trials were on a Kara class cruiser
and it is also installed on Slava class cruiser
s and Kirov class battlecruiser
s. It is stored in eight (Slava) or twelve (Kirov) 8-missile rotary launchers below decks. The export version of this system is known as Rif (Russian Риф – reef). The NATO name, found also in colloquial use, is "Grumble".
, and introduced the new 48N6 missile. It was introduced in 1990 and increased missile speed to approximately Mach 6 for a maximum target engagement speed of up to Mach 8.5, increased the warhead size to 150 kg (330 lb) and increased the maximum engagement range yet again to 5–150 km (3–93 mi) as well as opening the altitude envelope to 10m-27 km (33–88500 ft). The new missiles also introduced the ultimate track-via-missile
guidance method and brought with it the ability to intercept short-range ballistic missiles. This system makes use of the TOMB STONE MOD rather than TOP DOME radar. The export version is called the Rif-M. Two Rif-M systems were purchased by China in 2002 and installed on the Type 051C air-defence guided missile destroyers.
Both naval versions are believed to include a secondary infrared
terminal seeker, similar to the newer US Standard missile
system, probably to reduce the system's vulnerability to saturation. This also allows the missile to engage contacts over the radar horizon
, such as warships or sea-skimming anti-ship missiles.
The 9K81 S-300V Antey-300 (Russian 9К81 С-300В Антей-300 – named after Antaeus
, NATO reporting name SA-12 Gladiator/Giant) is a bit different from the other versions. It was built by Antey as opposed to Almaz. The V suffix stands for Voyska (ground forces). It was designed to act as the top tier army air defence system, providing a defence against ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and aircraft, replacing the SA-4 'Ganef'. The "GLADIATOR" missiles have a maximum engagement range of around 75 km (46.6 mi) while the "GIANT" missiles can engage targets out to 100 km (62.1 mi) and up to altitudes of around 32 km (100,000 ft). In both cases the warhead is around 150 kg (331 lb).
While it was created from the same project (hence the common S-300 designation) different priorities resulted in a design quite different from the other versions. The S-300V system is carried on tracked
MT-T transporters, which gives it better cross-country mobility than even the S-300Ps on 8x8 wheeled transporters. It is also somewhat more distributed than the S-300P's. For example, while both have mechanically-scanned radar for target acquisition (9S15 BILL BOARD A), the battery level 9S32 GRILL PAN has autonomous search ability and SARH delegated to illumination radar on TELAR
s. The early 30N6 FLAP LID on the S-300P handles tracking and illumination, but is not equipped with autonomous search (later upgraded).
The S-300V places a greater emphasis on ABM, with the dedicated 9M83 (SA-12B Giant). This missile is larger and only two can be held on each TELAR. It also has a dedicated ABM radar – the 9S19 HIGH SCREEN phased array radar at battalion level. A typical S-300V battalion is made up out of a target detection and designation unit, a guidance radar and up to 6 TELARs. The detection and designation unit consists of the 9S457-1 command post, a 9S15MV or 9S15MT BILL BOARD all-round surveillance radar and 9S19M2 HIGH SCREEN sector surveillance radar. The S-300V uses the 9S32-1 GRILL PAN multi-channel guidance radar. Four types of missile-launcher vehicles can be used with the system:
S-300V system may be controlled by a upper level command post system 9S52 Polyana-D4
integrating it with Buk missile system into a brigade.
The S-300PMU-1 (Russian С-300ПМУ-1,US DoD designation SA-20A, NATO reporting name SA-20 Gargoyle) was also introduced in 1992 with the new and larger 48N6 missiles for the first time in a land-based system and introduced all the same performance improvements from the S300FM version including the increased speed, range, TVM
guidance and ABM
capability. The warhead is slightly smaller than the naval version at 143 kg (315 lb). This version also saw the introduction of the new and more capable 30N6E TOMB STONE radar.
The S-300PMU-1 was introduced in 1999 and for the first time introduces several different kinds of missiles in a single system. In addition to the 5V55R, 48N6E and 48N6E2 missiles the S-300PMU-1 can utilise two new missiles, the 9M96E1 and 9M96E2. Both are significantly smaller than the previous missiles at 330 and 420 kg (728 and 926 lb respectively) and carry smaller 24 kg (53 lb) warhead. The 9M96E1 has an engagement range of 1–40 km (1–25 mi) and the 9M96E2 of 1–120 km (1–75 mi). They are still carried 4 per TEL. Rather than just relying on aerodynamic fins for manoeuvring, they use a gas-dynamic
system which allows them to have an excellent probability of kill
(Pk) despite the much smaller warhead. The Pk is estimated at 0.7 against a tactical ballistic missile for either missile. The S-300PMU-1 typically uses the 83M6E command and control system, although it is also compatible with the older Baikal-1E and Senezh-M1E CCS command and control systems. The 83M6E system incorporates the 64N6E (BIG BIRD) surveillance/detection radar. The fire control/illumination and guidance radar used is the 30N6E(1), optionally matched with a 76N6 low altitude detection radar and a 96L6E all altitude detection radar. The 83M6E command and control system can control up to 12 TELs, both the self propelled 5P85SE vehicle and the 5P85TE towed launchers. Generally support vehicles are also included, such as the 40V6M tow vehicle, intended for lifting of the antenna post.
The S-300PMU-2 Favorite (Russian С-300ПМУ-2 Фаворит – Favourite, DoD designation SA-20B), introduced in 1997, is an upgrade to the S-300PMU-1 with range extended once again to 195 km (121.2 mi) with the introduction of the 48N6E2 missile. This system is apparently capable against not just short range ballistic missiles, but now also medium range tactical ballistic missiles. It uses the 83M6E2 command and control system, consisting of the 54K6E2 command post vehicle and the 64N6E2 surveillance/detection radar. It employs the 30N6E2 fire control/illumination and guidance radar. Like the S-300PMU-1, 12 TELs can be controlled, with any mix of 5P85SE2 self propelled and 5P85TE2 trailer launchers. Optionally it can make use of the 96L6E all altitude detection radar and 76N6 low altitude detection radar, just like the S-300PMU-1.
it is by far the most advanced version. Little else is known about this version.
and intense Turkish pressure (see Cyprus Missile Crisis), the system was transferred to the Greek Island of Crete
. Later, Cyprus acquired the Tor-M1 system and the Buk-M1 system. Finally, on 19/12/07 the missiles passed officially to Greek government in return for more Tor-M1 systems and Buk-M1 systems. On 10 October 2010 military parade a new SAM system, complete with Flap Lid radars, was displayed. North Korea announced it to be "an anti-ballistic defense system", capable of shooting down aircraft at distances of 90 kilometers and at altitudes of up to 30 kilometers. Japanese media reported the system to be a locally designed S-300 derivative, a fact that is corraberated by the presence of Flap Lid radars. However this and the origin of the missiles have yet to be confirmed. – Inherited from Czechoslovakia. Slovakian proposal to equip another battalion in mid '90 was canceled. announced an intention to buy the S-300P in 1991 and now seems to possess the system.: Has used all of the S-300 variations. The Russian Air Defense Forces, which are part of the Air Force, currently operates 768 S-300PMUs and 185 S-300Vs, meaning they operate 953 in total. In addition Russian armed forces also operates 32 S-400 systems by 2011 with more on order. – S-300PS, S-300PMU, S-300V and others. Venezuela has ordered S-300VM "Antey-2500" to equip 12 Regiments. Deliveries are expected to be completed by 2010–2011. has bought two S-300PMU-1 for nearly $300 million.
has started the supply of components for S-300 air defense systems to Iran
. Esmaeil Kosari, deputy chairman of the parliamentary commission on national security and foreign policy, told the Iranian news agency IRNA that Iran and Russia had held negotiations for several years on the purchase of S-300 air defense systems and had finalized a deal. Kosari said the Islamic Republic would deploy S-300 surface-to-air missile systems to strengthen national defense on border areas. On 28 October 2009, if asked when Russia would deliver the systems to Iran, Ivanov said: "There have been no such deliveries to date." Yet on 23 December 2009, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexei Borodavkin said Russia sees no reason to cancel a deal to provide S-300s to Iran. He said ""Exports of such weapons is subject to no UN treaty or other bilateral agreements, This is why we see no essential reason to make any change in the deal," indicating that there is a deal. On 8 February 2010, Iran announced that it had a "domestically-made" system with the same capabilities as the S-300. Alexander Fumin has said that the delay in the delivery is due to a technical problem with the radiowave system. In 19 April 2010, Asr Iran (Iran's Era) website said that Iran could develop a similar air missiles system On 11 June 2010 Russia has stopped sale of the S-300 air defense system to Iran in lieu of U.N. sanctions against Iran stating that the "S-300s fall under these sanctions". On 4 August 2010 Iran claimed it has obtained two S-300PT (SA-10) from Belarus and two others from another unspecified source despite Russian refusal to deliver them. The Belarusian government has denied rumors that Minsk
had allegedly sold S-300 air defense systems to Iran. "The State Military-Industrial Committee can officially state that Belarus has never held talks with Iran on the deliveries of the S-300 air defense systems", said committee's spokesman Vladimir Lavrenyuk. "Belarus has never supplied S-300 systems or their components to Iran," he said, adding that Minsk strictly complied with international arms control regulations. On 22 September 2010 Russian President Dmitry Medvedev
signed a decree banning the sale of the S-300 and other military equipment to Iran. The sale was canceled because of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1929
sanctions on Iran. On 10 November 2010 Iran announced that it had developed a version of the S-300 missile. However Pieter Wezeman of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute has questioned Iran's ability to duplicate the Russian missile system.: Russia has offered the S-300VM to Turkey.
brought a S-300PMU along, providing a unique opportunity for NATO to become familiar with the system.
Israel's purchase of F-35 Lightning II
fighters was allegedly motivated in part to nullify the threat of S-300 missiles that were, at the time the fighters were initially sought, subject to a potential arms sale to Iran.
. Later versions use the 30N6 FLAP LID B or TOMB STONE radar to guide the missiles via command guidance/seeker-aided ground guidance (SAGG). SAGG is similar to the Patriot's TVM guidance scheme. The earlier 30N6 FLAP LID A can guide up to four missiles at a time to up to four targets, and can track up to 24 targets at once. The 30N6E FLAP LID B can guide up to two missiles per target to up to six targets simultaneously. Targets flying at up to Mach 2.5 can be successfully engaged or around Mach 8.5 for later models. One missile can be launched every three seconds. The mobile control centre is able to manage up to 12 TELs simultaneously.
The original warhead weighed 100 kg (220 lb), intermediate warheads weighed 133 kg (293 lb) and the latest warhead weighs 143 kg (315 lb). All are equipped with a proximity fuze
and contact fuze
. The missiles themselves weigh between 1,450 kg (3,200 lb) and 1,800 kg (3,970 lb). Missiles are catapulted clear of the launching tubes before their rocket motor fires, which can accelerate at up to 100 g
(1 km/s²). They launch straight upwards and then tip over towards their target, removing the need to aim the missiles before launch. The missiles are steered with a combination of control fins and through thrust vectoring
vanes. The sections below give exact specifications of the radar and missiles in the different S-300 versions. It should be noted that since the S-300PM most vehicles are interchangeable across variations.
The original S-300P utilises a combination of the 76N6 CLAM SHELL continuous-wave Doppler radar
for target acquisition and the 30N6 FLAP LID A I/J-band phased array digitally steered tracking and engagement radar. Both are mounted on trailers. In addition there is a trailer-mounted command centre and up to twelve trailer-mounted erector/launchers with four missiles each. The S-300PS/PM is similar but uses an upgraded 30N6 tracking and engagement radar with the command post integrated and has truck-mounted TELs.
If employed in an anti-ballistic missile or anti-cruise missile role, the 64N6 BIG BIRD E/F-band radar would also be included with the battery. It is capable of detecting ballistic missile class targets up to 1000 km (621.4 mi) away travelling at up to 10000 km/h (6200 mph) and cruise missile class targets up to 300 km (186.4 mi) away. It also employs electronic beam steering and performs a scan once every twelve seconds.
The 36D6 TIN SHIELD radar can also be used to augment the S-300 system to provide earlier target detection than the FLAP LID radar allows. It can detect a missile-sized target flying at an altitude of 60 meters (200 ft) at least 20 km (12.4 mi) away, at an altitude of 100 meters (330 ft) at least 30 km (18.6 mi) away, and at high altitude up to 175 km (108.7 mi) away. In addition a 64N6 BIG BIRD E/F band target acquisition radar can be used which has a maximum detection range of 300 km (186.4 mi).
The S-300 FC Radar Flap Lid can be mounted on a standard pylon.
Russia
Russia or , officially known as both Russia and the Russian Federation , is a country in northern Eurasia. It is a federal semi-presidential republic, comprising 83 federal subjects...
n long range surface-to-air missile
Surface-to-air missile
A surface-to-air missile or ground-to-air missile is a missile designed to be launched from the ground to destroy aircraft or other missiles...
systems produced by NPO Almaz
NPO Almaz
JSC "NPO "Almaz" named after A. A. Raspletin is a Soviet/Russian military R&D enterprise founded in 1947. It's the core of the Almaz-Antey holding....
, all based on the initial S-300P version. The S-300 system was developed to defend against aircraft and cruise missile
Cruise missile
A cruise missile is a guided missile that carries an explosive payload and is propelled, usually by a jet engine, towards a land-based or sea-based target. Cruise missiles are designed to deliver a large warhead over long distances with high accuracy...
s for the Soviet Air Defence Forces. Subsequent variations were developed to intercept ballistic missile
Ballistic missile
A ballistic missile is a missile that follows a sub-orbital ballistic flightpath with the objective of delivering one or more warheads to a predetermined target. The missile is only guided during the relatively brief initial powered phase of flight and its course is subsequently governed by the...
s. The S-300 was jointly produced by Almaz with Samsung Group
Samsung Group
The Samsung Group is a South Korean multinational conglomerate corporation headquartered in Samsung Town, Seoul, South Korea...
of South Korea
South Korea
The Republic of Korea , , is a sovereign state in East Asia, located on the southern portion of the Korean Peninsula. It is neighbored by the People's Republic of China to the west, Japan to the east, North Korea to the north, and the East China Sea and Republic of China to the south...
since 1993.
The S-300 system was first deployed by the Soviet Union
Soviet Union
The Soviet Union , officially the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics , was a constitutionally socialist state that existed in Eurasia between 1922 and 1991....
in 1979, designed for the air defense of large industrial and administrative facilities, military bases, and control of airspace against enemy strike aircraft.
The project-managing developer of the S-300 is Russian Almaz corporation (government owned, aka "KB-1") which is currently a part of "Almaz-Antei" Air Defense Concern. S-300 uses missiles developed by MKB "Fakel" design bureau
MKB Fakel
MKB "Fakel" also known as P.D.Grushin Machine-building Design Bureau is a Russian government-owned aerospace defense corporation located in Khimki. It was founded in 1953 to facilitate development of guided surface-to-air missiles in response to a growing threat of US air attack on the Soviet...
(a separate government corporation, aka "OKB-2").
The S-300 is regarded as one of the most potent anti-aircraft missile systems
Surface-to-air missile
A surface-to-air missile or ground-to-air missile is a missile designed to be launched from the ground to destroy aircraft or other missiles...
currently fielded. Its radars have the ability to simultaneously track up to 100 targets while engaging up to 12. S-300 deployment time is five minutes. The S-300 missiles are sealed round
Sealed round
A sealed round is a munition which is typically stored in some kind of container , so that the munition does not require any sort of maintenance and is stored in this container right up until the point that it is used...
s and require no maintenance over their lifetime. An evolved version of the S-300 system is the S-400 (NATO reporting name
NATO reporting name
NATO reporting names are classified code names for military equipment of the Eastern Bloc...
SA-21), entering limited service in 2004.
Variations and upgrades
Numerous versions have since emerged with different missileMissile
Though a missile may be any thrown or launched object, it colloquially almost always refers to a self-propelled guided weapon system.-Etymology:The word missile comes from the Latin verb mittere, meaning "to send"...
s, improved radar
Radar
Radar is an object-detection system which uses radio waves to determine the range, altitude, direction, or speed of objects. It can be used to detect aircraft, ships, spacecraft, guided missiles, motor vehicles, weather formations, and terrain. The radar dish or antenna transmits pulses of radio...
s, better resistance to countermeasures
Electronic countermeasures
An electronic countermeasure is an electrical or electronic device designed to trick or deceive radar, sonar or other detection systems, like infrared or lasers. It may be used both offensively and defensively to deny targeting information to an enemy...
, longer range and better capability against short-range ballistic missiles or targets flying at very low altitude. There are currently three main variations.
S-300 system family tree
Land-based S-300P (SA-10)
The S-300P (transliterated from RussianRussian alphabet
The Russian alphabet is a form of the Cyrillic script, developed in the First Bulgarian Empire during the 10th century AD at the Preslav Literary School...
С-300П, NATO reporting name
NATO reporting name
NATO reporting names are classified code names for military equipment of the Eastern Bloc...
SA-10 Grumble) is the original version of the S-300 system which became operational in 1978. In 1987 over 80 of these sites were active, mainly in the area around Moscow. The P suffix stand for PVO-Strany (country air defence system). An S-300PT unit consists of a 36D6 (NATO reporting name TIN SHIELD) surveillance radar, a 30N6 (FLAP LID) fire control system and 5P85-1 launch vehicles. The 5P85-1 vehicle is a semi-trailer truck
Semi-trailer truck
A semi-trailer truck, also known as a semi, tractor-trailer, or articulated truck or articulated lorry, is an articulated vehicle consisting of a towing engine , and a semi-trailer A semi-trailer truck, also known as a semi, tractor-trailer, or (in the United Kingdom and Ireland) articulated truck...
. Usually a 76N6 (CLAM SHELL) low altitude detection radar is also a part of the unit.
This system broke substantial new ground, including the use of a phased array radar and multiple engagements on the same Fire-control system
Fire-control system
A fire-control system is a number of components working together, usually a gun data computer, a director, and radar, which is designed to assist a weapon system in hitting its target. It performs the same task as a human gunner firing a weapon, but attempts to do so faster and more...
(FCS). Nevertheless, it had some limitations. It took over one hour to set up this semi-mobile system for firing and the hot vertical launch method employed scorched the TEL
Transporter erector launcher
A transporter erector launcher is a vehicle with an integrated prime mover that can carry, elevate to firing position and launch one or more missiles. Such vehicles exist for both surface-to-air missiles and surface-to-surface missiles...
.
It was originally intended to fit the Track Via Missile (TVM
Track-via-missile
“Track-via-missile” refers to a missile guidance technique which combines features of semi-active radar homing and radio command guidance.-Explanation:TVM guidance requires a radar ground station and a missile with a radar receiver...
) guidance system onto this model. However, the TVM system had problems tracking targets below 500 m. Rather than accept the limitation, the Soviets decided that the tracking of low altitude targets was a must and decided to use a pure command-guidance system until the TVM head was ready. This allowed the minimum engagement altitude to be set at 25 m.
Improvements to the S-300P have resulted in several major subversions for both the internal and the export market. The S-300PT-1 and S-300PT-1A (SA-10b/c) are incremental upgrades of the original S300PT system. They introduce the 5V55KD missile and the cold launch method thereafter employed. Time to readiness was reduced to 30 minutes (broadly comparable to Patriot) and trajectory optimization
Trajectory optimization
Trajectory optimization is the process of designing a trajectory that minimizes or maximizes some measure of performance within prescribed constraint boundaries...
s allowed the 5V55KD to reach a range of 75 km.
The S-300PS/S-300PM (Russian С-300ПC/С-300ПМ, NATO reporting name SA-10d/e) was introduced in 1985 and is the only version thought to have been fitted with a nuclear warhead. This model saw the introduction of the modern TEL and mobile radar and command-post vehicles that were all based on the MAZ-7910 8x8 truck. This model also featured the new 5V55R missiles which increased maximum engagement range to 90 km (55.9 mi) and introduced a terminal semi-active radar homing (SARH) guidance mode. The surveillance radar of these systems was designated 30N6. Also introduced with this version was the distinction between self propelled and towed TELs. The towed TEL is designated 5P85T. Mobile TELs were the 5P85S and 5P85D. The 5P85D was a "slave" TEL, being controlled by a 5P85S "master" TEL. The "master" TEL is identifiable thanks to the large equipment container behind the cabin; in the "slave" TEL this area is not enclosed and is used for cable or spare tyre storage.
Sea-based S-300F (SA-N-6)
Marine Scientific Research Institute of radioelectronics
OJSC Marine Scientific Research Institute of radioelectronics or MNIIRE Altair design bureau is a Soviet/Russian enterprise, developer of naval SA missile systems and radars...
with the new 5V55RM missile with range extended to 7–90 km (4–56 mi, equal to 3.8–50 nautical miles) and maximum target speed up to Mach
Mach number
Mach number is the speed of an object moving through air, or any other fluid substance, divided by the speed of sound as it is in that substance for its particular physical conditions, including those of temperature and pressure...
4 while engagement altitude was reduced to 25–25,000 m (100-82,000 ft). The naval version utilises the TOP SAIL or TOP STEER, TOP PAIR and 3R41 Volna (TOP DOME) radar and utilises command guidance with a terminal semi-active radar homing
Semi-active radar homing
Semi-active radar homing, or SARH, is a common type of missile guidance system, perhaps the most common type for longer-range air-to-air and surface-to-air missile systems. The name refers to the fact that the missile itself is only a passive detector of a radar signal – provided by an external ...
(SARH) mode. Its first installation and sea trials were on a Kara class cruiser
Kara class cruiser
The Kara is a class of Cold War era Soviet guided missile cruisers. The Soviet designation is Project 1134B Berkut B - Беркут Б and the Soviet mission description is "large anti-submarine warfare ship" and not "cruiser".-Design:...
and it is also installed on Slava class cruiser
Slava class cruiser
The Slava class cruiser, Soviet designation Project 1164 Atlant, is a large conventionally-powered warship, currently operated by Russia.-Design:...
s and Kirov class battlecruiser
Kirov class battlecruiser
The Kirov-class battlecruiser is a class of nuclear-powered military ships of the Russian Navy, the largest and heaviest surface combatant warships currently in active operation in the world. The Russian designation is heavy nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser...
s. It is stored in eight (Slava) or twelve (Kirov) 8-missile rotary launchers below decks. The export version of this system is known as Rif (Russian Риф – reef). The NATO name, found also in colloquial use, is "Grumble".
Sea-based S-300FM (SA-N-20)
The S-300FM Fort-M (Russian С-300ФМ, DoD designation SA-N-20) is another naval version of the system, installed only on the Kirov class cruiser RFS Pyotr VelikiyRFS Pyotr Velikiy
Pyotr Velikiy is a heavy nuclear-powered cruiser , the fourth Kirov class battlecruiser of the Russian Navy, originally named Yuriy Andropov...
, and introduced the new 48N6 missile. It was introduced in 1990 and increased missile speed to approximately Mach 6 for a maximum target engagement speed of up to Mach 8.5, increased the warhead size to 150 kg (330 lb) and increased the maximum engagement range yet again to 5–150 km (3–93 mi) as well as opening the altitude envelope to 10m-27 km (33–88500 ft). The new missiles also introduced the ultimate track-via-missile
Track-via-missile
“Track-via-missile” refers to a missile guidance technique which combines features of semi-active radar homing and radio command guidance.-Explanation:TVM guidance requires a radar ground station and a missile with a radar receiver...
guidance method and brought with it the ability to intercept short-range ballistic missiles. This system makes use of the TOMB STONE MOD rather than TOP DOME radar. The export version is called the Rif-M. Two Rif-M systems were purchased by China in 2002 and installed on the Type 051C air-defence guided missile destroyers.
Both naval versions are believed to include a secondary infrared
Infrared
Infrared light is electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength longer than that of visible light, measured from the nominal edge of visible red light at 0.74 micrometres , and extending conventionally to 300 µm...
terminal seeker, similar to the newer US Standard missile
Standard missile
Standard Missile can refer to a family of several different American missiles:* RIM-66 Standard , a medium range surface-to-air missile, the successor of the RIM-24 Tartar missile...
system, probably to reduce the system's vulnerability to saturation. This also allows the missile to engage contacts over the radar horizon
Radar horizon
The radar Horizon is a critical area of performance for aircraft detection systems that is defined by the distance at which the radar beam raise enough above the Earth surface to make detection of a target at low level impossible. It is associated with the low elevation region of performance and...
, such as warships or sea-skimming anti-ship missiles.
S-300V (SA-12)
Antaeus
Antaeus in Greek and Berber mythology was a half-giant, the son of Poseidon and Gaia, whose wife was Tinjis. Antaeus had a daughter named Alceis or Barce.-Mythology:...
, NATO reporting name SA-12 Gladiator/Giant) is a bit different from the other versions. It was built by Antey as opposed to Almaz. The V suffix stands for Voyska (ground forces). It was designed to act as the top tier army air defence system, providing a defence against ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and aircraft, replacing the SA-4 'Ganef'. The "GLADIATOR" missiles have a maximum engagement range of around 75 km (46.6 mi) while the "GIANT" missiles can engage targets out to 100 km (62.1 mi) and up to altitudes of around 32 km (100,000 ft). In both cases the warhead is around 150 kg (331 lb).
While it was created from the same project (hence the common S-300 designation) different priorities resulted in a design quite different from the other versions. The S-300V system is carried on tracked
Caterpillar track
Continuous tracks or caterpillar tracks are a system of vehicle propulsion in which modular metal plates linked into a continuous band are driven by two or more wheels...
MT-T transporters, which gives it better cross-country mobility than even the S-300Ps on 8x8 wheeled transporters. It is also somewhat more distributed than the S-300P's. For example, while both have mechanically-scanned radar for target acquisition (9S15 BILL BOARD A), the battery level 9S32 GRILL PAN has autonomous search ability and SARH delegated to illumination radar on TELAR
Transporter erector launcher
A transporter erector launcher is a vehicle with an integrated prime mover that can carry, elevate to firing position and launch one or more missiles. Such vehicles exist for both surface-to-air missiles and surface-to-surface missiles...
s. The early 30N6 FLAP LID on the S-300P handles tracking and illumination, but is not equipped with autonomous search (later upgraded).
- Transporter erector and radar (TELAR) vehicles, which not only transport the missiles, but also fire and guide them. There are two models: the 9A83-1 TELAR holding four 9M83 GLADIATOR missiles and the 9A82 TELAR holding two 9M82 GIANT missiles.
- Launcher/loader vehicles (LLV), which transport the missiles and can reload the TELARs, and also fire missiles under the control of a TELAR. There are two models: the 9A84 LLV holding two 9M83 GLADIATOR missiles and the 9A85 LLV holding two 9M82 GIANT missiles.
S-300V system may be controlled by a upper level command post system 9S52 Polyana-D4
Polyana-D4
9S52 Polyana-D4 ASU is a Soviet/Russian automated command and control system for air defence troops. May act as an upper level command post of the SAM brigade which included S-300V as well as the 9К37 Buk complex....
integrating it with Buk missile system into a brigade.
S-300PMU-1/2 (SA-20)
Track-via-missile
“Track-via-missile” refers to a missile guidance technique which combines features of semi-active radar homing and radio command guidance.-Explanation:TVM guidance requires a radar ground station and a missile with a radar receiver...
guidance and ABM
Anti-ballistic missile
An anti-ballistic missile is a missile designed to counter ballistic missiles .A ballistic missile is used to deliver nuclear, chemical, biological or conventional warheads in a ballistic flight trajectory. The term "anti-ballistic missile" describes any antimissile system designed to counter...
capability. The warhead is slightly smaller than the naval version at 143 kg (315 lb). This version also saw the introduction of the new and more capable 30N6E TOMB STONE radar.
The S-300PMU-1 was introduced in 1999 and for the first time introduces several different kinds of missiles in a single system. In addition to the 5V55R, 48N6E and 48N6E2 missiles the S-300PMU-1 can utilise two new missiles, the 9M96E1 and 9M96E2. Both are significantly smaller than the previous missiles at 330 and 420 kg (728 and 926 lb respectively) and carry smaller 24 kg (53 lb) warhead. The 9M96E1 has an engagement range of 1–40 km (1–25 mi) and the 9M96E2 of 1–120 km (1–75 mi). They are still carried 4 per TEL. Rather than just relying on aerodynamic fins for manoeuvring, they use a gas-dynamic
Gas-dynamic
A gas-dynamic control system is one where the path of an object in flight is controlled by either the generation or redirection of gas flow out of an orifice rather than with the traditional movable control surfaces...
system which allows them to have an excellent probability of kill
Probability of kill
Computer games, simulations, models, and operations research programs often require a mechanism to determine statistically whether the engagement between a weapon and a target resulted in a kill, or the probability of kill...
(Pk) despite the much smaller warhead. The Pk is estimated at 0.7 against a tactical ballistic missile for either missile. The S-300PMU-1 typically uses the 83M6E command and control system, although it is also compatible with the older Baikal-1E and Senezh-M1E CCS command and control systems. The 83M6E system incorporates the 64N6E (BIG BIRD) surveillance/detection radar. The fire control/illumination and guidance radar used is the 30N6E(1), optionally matched with a 76N6 low altitude detection radar and a 96L6E all altitude detection radar. The 83M6E command and control system can control up to 12 TELs, both the self propelled 5P85SE vehicle and the 5P85TE towed launchers. Generally support vehicles are also included, such as the 40V6M tow vehicle, intended for lifting of the antenna post.
S-400 (SA-21)
The S-400 Triumf (Russian С-400 «Триумф», formerly known as the S-300PMU-3/С-300ПМУ-3, NATO reporting name SA-21 Growler) was introduced in 1999 and features a new, much larger missile with 2 per TEL. The project has been encountering delays since its original announcement and deployment has only begun on a small scale in 2006. With an engagement range of up to 400 km (248.5 mi), depending on the missile variant used, and specifically designed to counter stealthStealth technology
Stealth technology also termed LO technology is a sub-discipline of military tactics and passive electronic countermeasures, which cover a range of techniques used with personnel, aircraft, ships, submarines, and missiles, to make them less visible to radar, infrared, sonar and other detection...
it is by far the most advanced version. Little else is known about this version.
S-300VM (SA-X-23)
The S-300VM (Antey 2500) is an upgrade to the S-300V. It consists of a new command post vehicle, the 9S457ME and a selection of new radars. As all-round surveillance radar the 9S15M2, 9S15MT2E or 9S15MV2E are possible, and the sector surveillance radar was upgraded to 9S19ME. The upgraded guidance radar has Grau index 9S32ME. The system can still employ up to 6 TELARs, the 9A84ME launchers (up to 4 × 9M83ME missile) and up to 6 launcher/loader vehicles assigned to each launcher (2 × 9M83ME missile each). An upgraded version, dubbed S-300V4 will be delivered to Russian army in 2011.Operators and other versions
The S-300 is mainly used in Eastern Europe and Asia although sources are inconsistent about the exact countries possessing the system. – 4 S-300PMU2 were ordered in 2006. bought 2 battalions of S-300PMU2 in 2009 worth at least $300 million. – S-300PS systems delivered from Russia in 2007 to replace older S-300 model in Belarussian inventory. Older S-300V sold to Turkey for testing and using on Anatolian Eagle exercises. has ten S-300 launchers, divided into two units with five launchers each.: China has bought the S-300PMU-1 and are licensed to manufacture it under the name Hongqi-10 (HQ-10). China is also the first customer of S-300PMU-2 and may be using the S-300V under the name Hongqi HQ-18. China also built an upgraded version of the HQ-10 labelled the HQ-15 with the maximum range upgraded from 150 km (93.2 mi) to 200 km (124.3 mi). There are unconfirmed reports that claim this version is the Chinese manufactured S-300PMU-2. The total number of the S-300PMU/1/2 and HQ-15/18 batteries in PLA are approximately 40 and 60 respectively, in the year 2008. The total number of the missiles is well above 1,600, with about 300 launcher platforms. Five such SAM battalions are deployed and in active duty around Beijing region, six battalions in Taiwan strait region and rest battalions in other major cities like Shanghai, Chengdu and Dalian. Two Rif (SA-N-6) systems were purchased in 2002 for the Chinese Navy for the Type 051C Destroyers. & : Cyprus signed an agreement to buy S-300 systems in 1996. Eventually bought the S-300PMU-1 version, but due to political tension between Cyprus and TurkeyTurkey
Turkey , known officially as the Republic of Turkey , is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe...
and intense Turkish pressure (see Cyprus Missile Crisis), the system was transferred to the Greek Island of Crete
Crete
Crete is the largest and most populous of the Greek islands, the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, and one of the thirteen administrative regions of Greece. It forms a significant part of the economy and cultural heritage of Greece while retaining its own local cultural traits...
. Later, Cyprus acquired the Tor-M1 system and the Buk-M1 system. Finally, on 19/12/07 the missiles passed officially to Greek government in return for more Tor-M1 systems and Buk-M1 systems. On 10 October 2010 military parade a new SAM system, complete with Flap Lid radars, was displayed. North Korea announced it to be "an anti-ballistic defense system", capable of shooting down aircraft at distances of 90 kilometers and at altitudes of up to 30 kilometers. Japanese media reported the system to be a locally designed S-300 derivative, a fact that is corraberated by the presence of Flap Lid radars. However this and the origin of the missiles have yet to be confirmed. – Inherited from Czechoslovakia. Slovakian proposal to equip another battalion in mid '90 was canceled. announced an intention to buy the S-300P in 1991 and now seems to possess the system.: Has used all of the S-300 variations. The Russian Air Defense Forces, which are part of the Air Force, currently operates 768 S-300PMUs and 185 S-300Vs, meaning they operate 953 in total. In addition Russian armed forces also operates 32 S-400 systems by 2011 with more on order. – S-300PS, S-300PMU, S-300V and others. Venezuela has ordered S-300VM "Antey-2500" to equip 12 Regiments. Deliveries are expected to be completed by 2010–2011. has bought two S-300PMU-1 for nearly $300 million.
Former operators
: Croatia no longer maintains an S-300 system. It was acquired from Ukraine in 1995 and was never complete and in operational state, but served the role of a psychological weapon. After much controversy, as of 2004 the system is no longer in Croatia and was presumably sold. According to some sources, including the court testimony of arms dealer Zvonko Zubak, the system was indeed shipped to the United States in 2004. – One battalion created in 1990. Passed on to Slovakia in 1993.Possible future operators
's status regarding the S-300 system remains controversial. Iran claimed to have signed a contract with Russia on 25 December 2007 on the sales of the S-300PMU-1 missile system. Russian officials have denied this. It has also been claimed that Croatia sold their S-300s to Iran. Later, another claim was made saying Libya transferred S-300s to Iran. On 21 December, according to a senior Iranian lawmaker, RussiaRussia
Russia or , officially known as both Russia and the Russian Federation , is a country in northern Eurasia. It is a federal semi-presidential republic, comprising 83 federal subjects...
has started the supply of components for S-300 air defense systems to Iran
Iran
Iran , officially the Islamic Republic of Iran , is a country in Southern and Western Asia. The name "Iran" has been in use natively since the Sassanian era and came into use internationally in 1935, before which the country was known to the Western world as Persia...
. Esmaeil Kosari, deputy chairman of the parliamentary commission on national security and foreign policy, told the Iranian news agency IRNA that Iran and Russia had held negotiations for several years on the purchase of S-300 air defense systems and had finalized a deal. Kosari said the Islamic Republic would deploy S-300 surface-to-air missile systems to strengthen national defense on border areas. On 28 October 2009, if asked when Russia would deliver the systems to Iran, Ivanov said: "There have been no such deliveries to date." Yet on 23 December 2009, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexei Borodavkin said Russia sees no reason to cancel a deal to provide S-300s to Iran. He said ""Exports of such weapons is subject to no UN treaty or other bilateral agreements, This is why we see no essential reason to make any change in the deal," indicating that there is a deal. On 8 February 2010, Iran announced that it had a "domestically-made" system with the same capabilities as the S-300. Alexander Fumin has said that the delay in the delivery is due to a technical problem with the radiowave system. In 19 April 2010, Asr Iran (Iran's Era) website said that Iran could develop a similar air missiles system On 11 June 2010 Russia has stopped sale of the S-300 air defense system to Iran in lieu of U.N. sanctions against Iran stating that the "S-300s fall under these sanctions". On 4 August 2010 Iran claimed it has obtained two S-300PT (SA-10) from Belarus and two others from another unspecified source despite Russian refusal to deliver them. The Belarusian government has denied rumors that Minsk
Minsk
- Ecological situation :The ecological situation is monitored by Republican Center of Radioactive and Environmental Control .During 2003–2008 the overall weight of contaminants increased from 186,000 to 247,400 tons. The change of gas as industrial fuel to mazut for financial reasons has worsened...
had allegedly sold S-300 air defense systems to Iran. "The State Military-Industrial Committee can officially state that Belarus has never held talks with Iran on the deliveries of the S-300 air defense systems", said committee's spokesman Vladimir Lavrenyuk. "Belarus has never supplied S-300 systems or their components to Iran," he said, adding that Minsk strictly complied with international arms control regulations. On 22 September 2010 Russian President Dmitry Medvedev
Dmitry Medvedev
Dmitry Anatolyevich Medvedev is the third President of the Russian Federation.Born to a family of academics, Medvedev graduated from the Law Department of Leningrad State University in 1987. He defended his dissertation in 1990 and worked as a docent at his alma mater, now renamed to Saint...
signed a decree banning the sale of the S-300 and other military equipment to Iran. The sale was canceled because of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1929
United Nations Security Council Resolution 1929
United Nations Security Council Resolution 1929, adopted on 9 June 2010, after recalling resolutions 1696 , 1737 , 1747 , 1803 , 1835 and 1887 concerning the topics of Iran and non-proliferation, the Council noted that Iran had failed to comply with previous Security Council resolutions...
sanctions on Iran. On 10 November 2010 Iran announced that it had developed a version of the S-300 missile. However Pieter Wezeman of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute has questioned Iran's ability to duplicate the Russian missile system.: Russia has offered the S-300VM to Turkey.
Combat history
Although none of the S-300 versions have ever fired a missile in a real conflict, it is considered a very capable SAM system. In April 2005, NATO had a combat exercise in France and Germany called Trial Hammer 05 to practice Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses missions. Participating countries were pleased that the Slovak Air ForceSlovak Air Force
The Slovak Air Force, known since 2002 as the Air Force of the Armed Forces of the Slovak Republic , is the aviation and air defense branch of the Slovak Armed Forces. Operating 70 aircraft from 3 major bases - Kuchyňa, Sliač, Prešov...
brought a S-300PMU along, providing a unique opportunity for NATO to become familiar with the system.
Israel's purchase of F-35 Lightning II
F-35 Lightning II
The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is a family of single-seat, single-engine, fifth generation multirole fighters under development to perform ground attack, reconnaissance, and air defense missions with stealth capability...
fighters was allegedly motivated in part to nullify the threat of S-300 missiles that were, at the time the fighters were initially sought, subject to a potential arms sale to Iran.
Specifications
Missiles are guided by the 30N6 FLAP LID or naval 3R41 Volna (TOP DOME) radar using command guidance with terminal semi-active radar homingSemi-active radar homing
Semi-active radar homing, or SARH, is a common type of missile guidance system, perhaps the most common type for longer-range air-to-air and surface-to-air missile systems. The name refers to the fact that the missile itself is only a passive detector of a radar signal – provided by an external ...
. Later versions use the 30N6 FLAP LID B or TOMB STONE radar to guide the missiles via command guidance/seeker-aided ground guidance (SAGG). SAGG is similar to the Patriot's TVM guidance scheme. The earlier 30N6 FLAP LID A can guide up to four missiles at a time to up to four targets, and can track up to 24 targets at once. The 30N6E FLAP LID B can guide up to two missiles per target to up to six targets simultaneously. Targets flying at up to Mach 2.5 can be successfully engaged or around Mach 8.5 for later models. One missile can be launched every three seconds. The mobile control centre is able to manage up to 12 TELs simultaneously.
The original warhead weighed 100 kg (220 lb), intermediate warheads weighed 133 kg (293 lb) and the latest warhead weighs 143 kg (315 lb). All are equipped with a proximity fuze
Proximity fuze
A proximity fuze is a fuze that is designed to detonate an explosive device automatically when the distance to target becomes smaller than a predetermined value or when the target passes through a given plane...
and contact fuze
Fuse (explosives)
In an explosive, pyrotechnic device or military munition, a fuse is the part of the device that initiates function. In common usage, the word fuse is used indiscriminately...
. The missiles themselves weigh between 1,450 kg (3,200 lb) and 1,800 kg (3,970 lb). Missiles are catapulted clear of the launching tubes before their rocket motor fires, which can accelerate at up to 100 g
G-force
The g-force associated with an object is its acceleration relative to free-fall. This acceleration experienced by an object is due to the vector sum of non-gravitational forces acting on an object free to move. The accelerations that are not produced by gravity are termed proper accelerations, and...
(1 km/s²). They launch straight upwards and then tip over towards their target, removing the need to aim the missiles before launch. The missiles are steered with a combination of control fins and through thrust vectoring
Thrust vectoring
Thrust vectoring, also thrust vector control or TVC, is the ability of an aircraft, rocket or other vehicle to manipulate the direction of the thrust from its engine or motor in order to control the attitude or angular velocity of the vehicle....
vanes. The sections below give exact specifications of the radar and missiles in the different S-300 versions. It should be noted that since the S-300PM most vehicles are interchangeable across variations.
Radar
The 30N6 FLAP LID A is mounted on a small trailer. The 64N6 BIG BIRD is mounted on a large trailer along with a generator and typically towed with the now familiar 8-wheeled truck. The 76N6 CLAM SHELL is mounted on a large trailer with a mast which is between 24 and 39 m (79 and 128 ft) tall.The original S-300P utilises a combination of the 76N6 CLAM SHELL continuous-wave Doppler radar
Doppler radar
A Doppler radar is a specialized radar that makes use of the Doppler effect to produce velocity data about objects at a distance. It does this by beaming a microwave signal towards a desired target and listening for its reflection, then analyzing how the frequency of the returned signal has been...
for target acquisition and the 30N6 FLAP LID A I/J-band phased array digitally steered tracking and engagement radar. Both are mounted on trailers. In addition there is a trailer-mounted command centre and up to twelve trailer-mounted erector/launchers with four missiles each. The S-300PS/PM is similar but uses an upgraded 30N6 tracking and engagement radar with the command post integrated and has truck-mounted TELs.
If employed in an anti-ballistic missile or anti-cruise missile role, the 64N6 BIG BIRD E/F-band radar would also be included with the battery. It is capable of detecting ballistic missile class targets up to 1000 km (621.4 mi) away travelling at up to 10000 km/h (6200 mph) and cruise missile class targets up to 300 km (186.4 mi) away. It also employs electronic beam steering and performs a scan once every twelve seconds.
The 36D6 TIN SHIELD radar can also be used to augment the S-300 system to provide earlier target detection than the FLAP LID radar allows. It can detect a missile-sized target flying at an altitude of 60 meters (200 ft) at least 20 km (12.4 mi) away, at an altitude of 100 meters (330 ft) at least 30 km (18.6 mi) away, and at high altitude up to 175 km (108.7 mi) away. In addition a 64N6 BIG BIRD E/F band target acquisition radar can be used which has a maximum detection range of 300 km (186.4 mi).
The S-300 FC Radar Flap Lid can be mounted on a standard pylon.
| GRAU index | NATO reporting name | Specialisation | Target detection range | Simultaneously detected targets | NATO frequency band | First used with | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 36D6 | TIN SHIELD | – | 180–360 km (112-224mile) | 120 | E/F | S-300P | Industrial designation: ST-68UM 350 kW to 1.23 MW signal strength |
| 76N6 | CLAM SHELL | Low altitude detection | I | S-300P | |||
| 76N6 | CLAM SHELL | Low altitude detection | 120 km (75mile) | 300 | I | S-300PMU | 1.4 kW FM FM broadcasting FM broadcasting is a broadcasting technology pioneered by Edwin Howard Armstrong which uses frequency modulation to provide high-fidelity sound over broadcast radio. The term "FM band" describes the "frequency band in which FM is used for broadcasting"... continuous wave Continuous wave A continuous wave or continuous waveform is an electromagnetic wave of constant amplitude and frequency; and in mathematical analysis, of infinite duration. Continuous wave is also the name given to an early method of radio transmission, in which a carrier wave is switched on and off... |
| 64N6 | BIG BIRD | – | 300 km (186mile) | C | S-300PMU-1 | ||
| 96L6E | CHEESE BOARD | All altitude detection | 300 km (186mile) | 300 | S-300PMU-1 | ||
| 9S15 | BILL BOARD | – | 250 km (155mile) | 200 | S-300V | ||
| 9S19 | HIGH SCREEN | Sector tracking | 16 | S-300V | |||
| MR-75 | TOP STEER | Naval | 300 km (186mile) | D/E | S-300F | ||
| MR-800 Voskhod | TOP PAIR | Naval | 200 km (124mile) | C/D/E/F | S-300F |
| GRAU index | NATO reporting name | NATO frequency band | Target detection range | Simultaneously tracked targets | Simultaneously engaged targets !! First used with !! Notes | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30N6 | FLAP LID A | I/J | 4 | 4 | S-300P | ||
| 30N6E(1) | FLAP LID B | H-J | 200 km (124mile) | 12 | 6 | S-300PMU | Phased array Phased array In wave theory, a phased array is an array of antennas in which the relative phases of the respective signals feeding the antennas are varied in such a way that the effective radiation pattern of the array is reinforced in a desired direction and suppressed in undesired directions.An antenna array... |
| 30N6E2 | FLAP LID B | I/J | 200 km (124mile) | 72 | 36 | S-300PMU-2 | |
| 9S32-1 | GRILL PAN | Multi-band | 140–150 km (90mile) | 12 | 6 | S-300V | |
| 3R41 Volna | TOP DOME | I/J | 100 km (62mile) | S-300F |
Missiles
| GRAU index | Year | Range | Maximum velocity | Maximum target Speed | Length | Diameter | Weight | Warhead | Guidance | First used with |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5V55K/KD | 1978 | 47 km (29mile) | 1,700 m/s (3,800 mph) | 1,150 m/s (2572 mph) | 7 m (23 ft) | 450mm | 1,450 kg (3,200 lb) | 100 kg (220 lb) | Command | |
| 5V55R/RM | 1984 | 90 km (56mile) | 1,700 m/s (3,800 mph) | 1,150 m/s (2572 mph) | 7 m (23 ft) | 450mm | 1,450 kg (3,200 lb) | 133 kg (293 lb) | SARH | |
| 5V55U | 1992 | 150 km (93mile) | 2,000 m/s (4,470 mph) | 7 m (23 ft) | 450mm | 1,470 kg (3,240 lb) | 133 kg (293 lb) | SARH | ||
| 48N6/E | 1992 | 150 km (93mile) | 2,000 m/s (4,470 mph) | 2,800 m/s (6,415 mph) | 7.5 m (25 ft) | 500mm | 1,780 kg (3,920 lb) | ~150 kg (~330 lb) | TVM | |
| 48N6E2 | 1992 | 195 km (121mile) | 2,000 m/s (4,470 mph) | 2,800 m/s (6,415 mph) | 7.5 m (25 ft) | 500mm | 1,800 kg (3,970 lb) | 150 kg (330 lb) | TVM | |
| 9M82 | 1984 | 40 km (25mile) | 2,500 m/s (5,600 mph) | 150 kg (330 lb) | SARH by TELAR | S-300V | ||||
| 9M83 | 1984 | 100 km (60mile) | 1,800 m/s (4,030 mph) | 420 kg (926 lb) | 150 kg (330 lb) | SARH by TELAR | S-300V | |||
| 9M83ME | 1990 | 200 km (120mile) | SARH by TELAR | S-300VM | ||||||
| 9M96E1 | 1999 | 40 km (25mile) | 900 m/s (2,010 mph) | 4,800–5,000 m/s (10,737–11,185 mph) | 330 kg (728 lb) | 24 kg (53 lb) | Active Radar Homing | S-400 | ||
| 9M96E2 | 1999 | 120 km (75mile) | 1,000 m/s (2,240 mph) | 4,800–5,000 m/s (10,737–11,185 mph) | 420 kg (926 lb) | 24 kg (53 lb) | Active Radar Homing | S-400 | ||
| 40N6 | 2000 | 400 km (250mile) | Active Radar Homing | S-400 |
Comparable SAMs
- MIM-104 PatriotMIM-104 PatriotThe MIM-104 Patriot is a surface-to-air missile system, the primary of its kind used by the United States Army and several allied nations. It is manufactured by the Raytheon Company of the United States. The Patriot System replaced the Nike Hercules system as the U.S. Army's primary High to Medium...
- Type 3 Chū-SAMType 3 Chū-SAMor SAM-4 or is a Japanese developed surface-to-air missile currently in service with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Forces.-See also:* List of missiles* Anti-ballistic missileComparable SAMs:*MIM-104 Patriot* Akash missile* S-300* KS-1* HQ-9...
- Akash missileAkash missileAkash is India's medium range surface-to-air missile defense system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation and Bharat Electronics Limited as part of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program. The missile can target aircraft up to 30 km away, at altitudes up to...
- KS-1KS-1 Surface-to-air missileThe Kai Shan - 1 is the first Chinese surface-to-air missile to adopt a phased array radar.-Design:The missile is roughly the Chinese equivalent of the American MIM-23 HAWK, except it was designed to engage missiles as well as aircraft...
- HQ-9HQ-9The HQ-9 is China’s new generation medium- to long-range, active radar homing air defence missile.Initially an indigenous design with limited capabilities, the HQ-9 missile has undergone a redesign to incorporate Russian rocket technology after the acquisition of S-300 5V55-series missiles from...
- NASAMSNASAMSNASAMS is a distributed and networked medium to long range air-defence system. NASAMS was the first surface-based application for the AIM-120 AMRAAM and the first surface-to-air missile system in the western world with active radar guidance...
- Standard Missile 3
External links
- http://www.almaz-antey.ru/ in Russian
- http://www.ausairpower.net/TE-Asia-Sams-Pt1.pdf and http://www.ausairpower.net/TE-Asia-Sams-Pt2.pdf , a two-part piece from Australian Air Power.
- www.dtig.org detailed overview of the S-300P & S-300V family.
- Almaz S-300 – China's "Offensive" Air Defense
- Soviet/Russian Missile Designations
- S-300PMU2 Favorit EnemyForces.com
- Almaz S-300P/PT/PS/PMU/PMU-1/PMU-2
- 76N6 Clam Shell Acquisition Radar
- Antey 9K81 S-300V – SA-12A/B Gladiator/Giant