‘Viking’ air defence missile systems
JSC Rosoboronexport (part of the Rostec State Corporation) has begun promotion of its newest air defence missile system (ADMS) ‘Viking’ (a ‘Buk-M3’ type ADMS) to foreign operators.
“That’s good news for us and our foreign partners. The ‘Viking’ complex preserves the best characteristics of the famous line of the ‘Buk’ air defence missile systems and represents an important milestone in the development of the medium- range ADMS. There are unique characteristics of the system which are in line with current requirements in the area of operation and for protection of infrastructure against strikes from contemporary and future air launched weapons in conditions of radio-electronic countermeasures and counter
fire. “The ‘ Viking’ has no equivalent today in the world weapons market,” said Rosoboronexport’s Deputy Director General Sergey Ladygin.
The ‘ Viking’ multi- missile, highly mobile medium-range air defence system is the next step in development of the well known ‘Kub’ - ‘Buk’ ADMS line. However, in comparison with the ‘Buk-M2E’ ADMS, its effective range has increased by 1.5 times, up to 65 kilometres. Besides, the number of simultaneously fired targets has also multiplied by 1.5 times, becoming 6 by each self-propelled launching installation, while the number of ready- for- launch air defence guided missiles in one firing position, consisting of two combat units, has increased from 8 to 18.
The ADMS ‘ Viking’ incorporates a number of unique features, not previously available in any air defence missile system. For instance, it has a capability of integrating launchers from the ‘ Antei- 2500’ ADMS, which provides for engagement of targets at a distance up to 130 kilometers to boost efficiency of the whole AD grouping in the defence against hostile air-launched weaponry.
The ‘ Viking’ was developed and designed taking into account trends in the world market. Its technical characteristics allow the system to be adapted in the most versatile manner to meet priorities of Rosoboronexport’s foreign customers. The combat control station of the ‘Viking’ has possibility of integration with the organic radar system as well as with other radars, including those produced outside Russia, but obviously possessing required characteristics. Besides, the ADMS has autonomous capability for use in firing sections or even separately from self- propelled firing installations, which enlarges the total defended area and increases the number of covered sites. This greatly helps to lower costs of an air defence site.
“Commissioned by the Russian Armed Forces, the ‘Buk-M3’ system and its export version ‘Viking’ have proved a very high level of combat efficiency during their daily operation and exercises. The ‘Viking’ has a very high kill probability in relation to enemy’s aviation, attacking elements of precision-guided munitions, as well as tactical ballistic missiles, maritime and ground targets,” added Sergey Ladygin.