jakojako777
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Russian Military Pictures and Videos
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Russian Military Aircrew Numbers Tumble
Aircrew numbers in the Russian air force are to be cut by 40% as part of a program that will see the service adopt a revised operational-command structure by year-end.
Col. Gen. Alexander Zelin, the air force chief, unveiled the far-reaching plan last summer with the aim of transforming his service into an agile force capable of dealing with more diverse types of threats. Zelin says the new structure will consist of operational commands, air force bases and aerospace defense brigades (to counter aircraft and missile threats).
Existing air force and air defense armies will be replaced with four operational commands with headquarters in St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Khabarovsk and Rostov-on-Don.
The other three organizations will be the long-range aviation command, formerly the 37th strategic air army; the military-transport aviation command, built around the 61st air army; and an operational-strategic command of aerospace defense (the former special missions command with responsibility for defending Moscow and central Russia). The last will coordinate its activity with the space forces, which protects Russia from ballistic missiles as well as potential threats from space.
Thirty-three air bases and 13 aerospace defense brigades will form the core of the renovated air force, which will comprise 180 units and commands instead of the existing 340. Aircrew numbers are to be cut to 7,000 from 12,000, while the officer corps will be reduced to 38,000 from 65,000.
As a result, hundreds of older fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft types will be withdrawn from service as the air force works to improve its overall readiness. The ambition is that by 2020 70% of the combat inventory will consist of either new types or upgraded aircraft.
Delivery of the Sukhoi Su-35S, which is based on the Su-27 Flanker, is due to begin in 2011. The aircraft will give the air force a multirole heavy fighter until the PAK FA enters service during the second half of the next decade. First flight of the PAK FA prototype—the T-50—has likely slipped into early 2010, although officials close to the development say the overall program is now progressing satisfactorily.
In addition, the air force will receive more production-standard Su-34 strike aircraft beginning in 2010, as the type begins to replace the Su-24M Fencer. Upgrade of some of the air force’s MiG-31Bs is ongoing.
The upheaval in the air force mirrors that in the army. Nearly 1,900 army units and commands are being transformed into 172 permanent readiness units and commands, while more than 20 motorized and tank divisions will be replaced by 39 combined arms and two tank brigades.
The changes will facilitate the air force’s being able to concentrate better equipped and trained units at a fewer number of bases, suggest air force sources. They point to Baltimor airfield near Voronezh in central Russia as one potential beneficiary of the consolidation. The intent is to develop the airfield as a major base with several runways up to 3,500 meters (11,480 ft.) long. Once completed, Baltimor will accommodate about 100 combat aircraft.
Other bases have absorbed aircraft and personnel from disbanded units. The military transport aircraft base at Migalovo, near Tver, has absorbed air regiments from Sesha, Smolensk and Krechevitsy. Transport aircraft types moved to Migalovo include the Ilyushin Il-76 and Antonov An-12.
The relocation of aircraft and personnel requires substantial infrastructure development and additional accommodation. The latter concern is likely the defense ministry’s most pressing issue.
Along with an anticipated 28 new-build combat aircraft and the same number of helicopters slated to be delivered in 2010, additional units equipped with Almaz-Antey S-400 surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) are to be formed.
Notionally, a further five air defense battalions are scheduled to receive the S-400 during 2010, but Zelin has already begun to doubt whether this target will be met. The air force has so far equipped two units with the mobile long-range SAM.
Commenting on system *trials at the Ashuluk test range in southern Russia, Zelin suggested that while he was generally satisfied, the S-400 “still did not completely match the specification.” Exactly which elements of the system’s performance remain to be fulfilled is not yet known.
Moreover, delivery of the S-400 to the air force is being hampered by production capacity, and the defense ministry has floated the idea of establishing a second manufacturing site.
Russian Military Aircrew Numbers Tumble | AVIATION WEEK
Aircrew numbers in the Russian air force are to be cut by 40% as part of a program that will see the service adopt a revised operational-command structure by year-end.
Col. Gen. Alexander Zelin, the air force chief, unveiled the far-reaching plan last summer with the aim of transforming his service into an agile force capable of dealing with more diverse types of threats. Zelin says the new structure will consist of operational commands, air force bases and aerospace defense brigades (to counter aircraft and missile threats).
Existing air force and air defense armies will be replaced with four operational commands with headquarters in St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Khabarovsk and Rostov-on-Don.
The other three organizations will be the long-range aviation command, formerly the 37th strategic air army; the military-transport aviation command, built around the 61st air army; and an operational-strategic command of aerospace defense (the former special missions command with responsibility for defending Moscow and central Russia). The last will coordinate its activity with the space forces, which protects Russia from ballistic missiles as well as potential threats from space.
Thirty-three air bases and 13 aerospace defense brigades will form the core of the renovated air force, which will comprise 180 units and commands instead of the existing 340. Aircrew numbers are to be cut to 7,000 from 12,000, while the officer corps will be reduced to 38,000 from 65,000.
As a result, hundreds of older fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft types will be withdrawn from service as the air force works to improve its overall readiness. The ambition is that by 2020 70% of the combat inventory will consist of either new types or upgraded aircraft.
Delivery of the Sukhoi Su-35S, which is based on the Su-27 Flanker, is due to begin in 2011. The aircraft will give the air force a multirole heavy fighter until the PAK FA enters service during the second half of the next decade. First flight of the PAK FA prototype—the T-50—has likely slipped into early 2010, although officials close to the development say the overall program is now progressing satisfactorily.
In addition, the air force will receive more production-standard Su-34 strike aircraft beginning in 2010, as the type begins to replace the Su-24M Fencer. Upgrade of some of the air force’s MiG-31Bs is ongoing.
The upheaval in the air force mirrors that in the army. Nearly 1,900 army units and commands are being transformed into 172 permanent readiness units and commands, while more than 20 motorized and tank divisions will be replaced by 39 combined arms and two tank brigades.
The changes will facilitate the air force’s being able to concentrate better equipped and trained units at a fewer number of bases, suggest air force sources. They point to Baltimor airfield near Voronezh in central Russia as one potential beneficiary of the consolidation. The intent is to develop the airfield as a major base with several runways up to 3,500 meters (11,480 ft.) long. Once completed, Baltimor will accommodate about 100 combat aircraft.
Other bases have absorbed aircraft and personnel from disbanded units. The military transport aircraft base at Migalovo, near Tver, has absorbed air regiments from Sesha, Smolensk and Krechevitsy. Transport aircraft types moved to Migalovo include the Ilyushin Il-76 and Antonov An-12.
The relocation of aircraft and personnel requires substantial infrastructure development and additional accommodation. The latter concern is likely the defense ministry’s most pressing issue.
Along with an anticipated 28 new-build combat aircraft and the same number of helicopters slated to be delivered in 2010, additional units equipped with Almaz-Antey S-400 surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) are to be formed.
Notionally, a further five air defense battalions are scheduled to receive the S-400 during 2010, but Zelin has already begun to doubt whether this target will be met. The air force has so far equipped two units with the mobile long-range SAM.
Commenting on system *trials at the Ashuluk test range in southern Russia, Zelin suggested that while he was generally satisfied, the S-400 “still did not completely match the specification.” Exactly which elements of the system’s performance remain to be fulfilled is not yet known.
Moreover, delivery of the S-400 to the air force is being hampered by production capacity, and the defense ministry has floated the idea of establishing a second manufacturing site.
Russian Military Aircrew Numbers Tumble | AVIATION WEEK
jakojako777
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The ground-air missiles Russian S-500 created before 2015 (Office of study)
The ground-air missiles Russian S-500 created before 2015 (Office of study)
The creation of arms for the single system of Russian ballistic missile defense, including S-500 missiles will be completed in 2015, announced Wednesday in Moscow Igor Achourbeïli, CEO of consultancy firm Almaz-Antei responsible for developing the S - 500.
"All elements of the unique system of missile defense must be set up in 2015 under the military program of state," the official said to reporters.
The Almaz-Antei office plans to build "two new factories" that produce ground-air missiles and weapons of air defense ground, said Achourbeïli.
The missiles sol-air S-500 are intended to replace the S-400 Triumph able to organize defense sites cons staged a massive air attack. The S-500 missiles can destroy 10 targets against 6 for the S-400.
IN FRENCH !
Les missiles sol-air russes S-500 créés avant 2015 (bureau d'études) | Défense | RIA Novosti
The ground-air missiles Russian S-500 created before 2015 (Office of study)
The creation of arms for the single system of Russian ballistic missile defense, including S-500 missiles will be completed in 2015, announced Wednesday in Moscow Igor Achourbeïli, CEO of consultancy firm Almaz-Antei responsible for developing the S - 500.
"All elements of the unique system of missile defense must be set up in 2015 under the military program of state," the official said to reporters.
The Almaz-Antei office plans to build "two new factories" that produce ground-air missiles and weapons of air defense ground, said Achourbeïli.
The missiles sol-air S-500 are intended to replace the S-400 Triumph able to organize defense sites cons staged a massive air attack. The S-500 missiles can destroy 10 targets against 6 for the S-400.
IN FRENCH !
Les missiles sol-air russes S-500 créés avant 2015 (bureau d'études) | Défense | RIA Novosti
jakojako777
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Russia eyes completion of advanced S-500 air defense system by 2012
Russia eyes completion of advanced S-500 air defense system by 2012
18:58 GMT, September 16, 2009 ASTRAKHAN, South Russia | Russia's advanced S-500 air defense system could be developed in the next few years, the Air Force commander said on Wednesday according to RIA Novosti.
The S-500 is currently at the blueprint stage at the Almaz-Antei company and is expected to be rolled out by 2012.
"This work is in progress...I think this system will appear in the near future," Col. Gen. Alexander Zelin said.
The new system is expected to outperform Russia's most advanced S-400 as well as the U.S. Patriot Advanced Capability-3 system.
The S-400 Triumf (SA-21 Growler) is capable of intercepting and destroying airborne targets at a distance of up to 400 kilometers (250 miles), and can simultaneously engage up to six targets.
The S-500 is expected to have an extended range of up to 600 km (over 370 miles) and simultaneously engage up to 10 targets. The system will be capable of destroying hypersonic and ballistic targets.
Zelin said Russia's Defense Ministry considers the delivery of S-400 air defense missile systems to the Russian Armed Forces a priority at present, although exports of these systems to other countries of the Commonwealth of the Independent States (CIS) could be considered.
The general earlier said in line with a new defense model air-space defense brigades within Russia's Air Force will be established and equipped with advanced S-400 and S-500 air defense systems.
Russia has already deployed two S-400 regiments to protect the airspace around Moscow and industrial regions in the central part of the country, and an S-400 battalion in Russia's Far East.
defence.professionals | defpro.com
Russia eyes completion of advanced S-500 air defense system by 2012
18:58 GMT, September 16, 2009 ASTRAKHAN, South Russia | Russia's advanced S-500 air defense system could be developed in the next few years, the Air Force commander said on Wednesday according to RIA Novosti.
The S-500 is currently at the blueprint stage at the Almaz-Antei company and is expected to be rolled out by 2012.
"This work is in progress...I think this system will appear in the near future," Col. Gen. Alexander Zelin said.
The new system is expected to outperform Russia's most advanced S-400 as well as the U.S. Patriot Advanced Capability-3 system.
The S-400 Triumf (SA-21 Growler) is capable of intercepting and destroying airborne targets at a distance of up to 400 kilometers (250 miles), and can simultaneously engage up to six targets.
The S-500 is expected to have an extended range of up to 600 km (over 370 miles) and simultaneously engage up to 10 targets. The system will be capable of destroying hypersonic and ballistic targets.
Zelin said Russia's Defense Ministry considers the delivery of S-400 air defense missile systems to the Russian Armed Forces a priority at present, although exports of these systems to other countries of the Commonwealth of the Independent States (CIS) could be considered.
The general earlier said in line with a new defense model air-space defense brigades within Russia's Air Force will be established and equipped with advanced S-400 and S-500 air defense systems.
Russia has already deployed two S-400 regiments to protect the airspace around Moscow and industrial regions in the central part of the country, and an S-400 battalion in Russia's Far East.
defence.professionals | defpro.com
jakojako777
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S-400 Triumf air missile defense system
The S-400 Triumf (SA-21 Growler) is designed to intercept and effectively engage airborne targets, including stealth aircraft, cruise and ballistic missiles, at ranges of up to 3,500 kilometers (2,200 miles) and speeds of up to 4.8 kilometers (3 miles) per second.
http://en.rian.ru/infographics/20091217/157272520.html
The S-400 Triumf (SA-21 Growler) is designed to intercept and effectively engage airborne targets, including stealth aircraft, cruise and ballistic missiles, at ranges of up to 3,500 kilometers (2,200 miles) and speeds of up to 4.8 kilometers (3 miles) per second.
http://en.rian.ru/infographics/20091217/157272520.html
jakojako777
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Modernization of the Novosibirsk aviation plant (NAPO), a component of the Sukhoi Hol
DATELINE: MOSCOW Dec 10
Modernization of the Novosibirsk aviation plant (NAPO), a component of the Sukhoi Holding, will help enlarge the production of the Sukhoi Su-34 multifunctional jets, a source in the Russian aircraft building industry told Interfax-AVN.
“NAPO is due to make 32 Su-34 jets by 2012. Modernization will enlarge the output and cut production costs,” he said.
“The Su-34 production may grow manifold with the adoption of new machine tools and technologies,” he said.
http://www.russiandefenseblog.org/?p=599
DATELINE: MOSCOW Dec 10
Modernization of the Novosibirsk aviation plant (NAPO), a component of the Sukhoi Holding, will help enlarge the production of the Sukhoi Su-34 multifunctional jets, a source in the Russian aircraft building industry told Interfax-AVN.
“NAPO is due to make 32 Su-34 jets by 2012. Modernization will enlarge the output and cut production costs,” he said.
“The Su-34 production may grow manifold with the adoption of new machine tools and technologies,” he said.
http://www.russiandefenseblog.org/?p=599
jakojako777
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Ka-60 state acceptance trials to commence in Q1 2010
DATELINE: MOSCOW Nov 26
The Arsenyevsk Progress aircraft building company will make the first Kamov Ka-60 helicopter in the first quarter of 2010, Kamov Executive Director Roman Chernyshev said.
“State trials of the helicopter will start after that,” he said.
Only experimental models of the regular Ka-60 and Ka-60U combat trainer have already been made, he said.
The helicopters will have both a military and civilian use, Chernyshev said.
“Preliminary tests are in progress. They will be over by end of this year,” he said.
The helicopter will carry lightly armed paratroopers. It has a single rotor in contrast to other Kamov models.
The Defense Ministry needs up to 400 Ka-60. The manufacturer, Kamov, is a component of the Russian Helicopters Holding.
http://www.russiandefenseblog.org/?p=583
DATELINE: MOSCOW Nov 26
The Arsenyevsk Progress aircraft building company will make the first Kamov Ka-60 helicopter in the first quarter of 2010, Kamov Executive Director Roman Chernyshev said.
“State trials of the helicopter will start after that,” he said.
Only experimental models of the regular Ka-60 and Ka-60U combat trainer have already been made, he said.
The helicopters will have both a military and civilian use, Chernyshev said.
“Preliminary tests are in progress. They will be over by end of this year,” he said.
The helicopter will carry lightly armed paratroopers. It has a single rotor in contrast to other Kamov models.
The Defense Ministry needs up to 400 Ka-60. The manufacturer, Kamov, is a component of the Russian Helicopters Holding.
http://www.russiandefenseblog.org/?p=583
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Shamanov wants dedicated helicopter arm for VDV
DATELINE: MOSCOW Dec 10
The Russian Airborne Forces command has proposed to attach army aviation to paratrooper divisions and brigades, Forces Commander Lt. Gen. Vladimir Shamanov said.
“In the opinion of the Airborne Forces’ Military Board, it is necessary to add helicopters to Novorossiysk and Pskov paratrooper divisions and the Ulyanovsk separate paratrooper brigade,” he said.
This may apply to cargo and combat helicopters, he said. “We would like to have all types of helicopters, including the Mil Mi-28N ‘Night Hunter’ and the Kamov Ka-52 ‘Alligator’ for enlarging our combat might, the Mil Mi-8 MVT helicopters for tactical landing teams, and the Mil Mi- 26 large helicopter for transporting large units to remote areas,” he said.
Paratroopers were crying for helicopters during the five-day conflict in South Ossetia in August 2008 and during the two Chechen campaigns, Shamanov said.
Russia and CIS Defense & Policy Blog Shamanov wants dedicated helicopter arm for VDV
DATELINE: MOSCOW Dec 10
The Russian Airborne Forces command has proposed to attach army aviation to paratrooper divisions and brigades, Forces Commander Lt. Gen. Vladimir Shamanov said.
“In the opinion of the Airborne Forces’ Military Board, it is necessary to add helicopters to Novorossiysk and Pskov paratrooper divisions and the Ulyanovsk separate paratrooper brigade,” he said.
This may apply to cargo and combat helicopters, he said. “We would like to have all types of helicopters, including the Mil Mi-28N ‘Night Hunter’ and the Kamov Ka-52 ‘Alligator’ for enlarging our combat might, the Mil Mi-8 MVT helicopters for tactical landing teams, and the Mil Mi- 26 large helicopter for transporting large units to remote areas,” he said.
Paratroopers were crying for helicopters during the five-day conflict in South Ossetia in August 2008 and during the two Chechen campaigns, Shamanov said.
Russia and CIS Defense & Policy Blog Shamanov wants dedicated helicopter arm for VDV
jakojako777
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Bulava failures could lead to indefinite delay in Borei program
DATELINE: MOSCOW Dec 15
The Russian Defense Ministry may temporarily shelve its program to modernize the sea-based component of the country’s strategic nuclear deterrence forces, the Izvestia newspaper said on Tuesday, citing a source familiar with the decision.
Efforts to launch the construction of the fourth nuclear-powered cruiser of Project 955 Borei, scheduled for December 22, could be cancelled, according to the newspaper.
“Regrettably, I am not authorized to take decisions on this issue [the construction of the nuclear-powered cruiser]. It is a matter for the Navy and the Defense Ministry. Everything depends on their decisions, including those dealing with this project. We need to analyze all this. A state commission will work,” said Izvestia, citing Nikolai Kalistratov, general director of Sevmashpredpriyatiye, an enterprise appointed to build fourth-generation nuclear submarines.
The recent failed launches of the Bulava sea-based ballistic missile have driven the program to develop this missile and ships designed to carry it into a deadlock, the newspaper said.
“Neither the Defense Ministry nor the defense sector wants to assume responsibility for the future of this missile and this submarine,” it said.
Russia and CIS Defense & Policy Blog Bulava failures could lead to indefinite delay in Borei program
DATELINE: MOSCOW Dec 15
The Russian Defense Ministry may temporarily shelve its program to modernize the sea-based component of the country’s strategic nuclear deterrence forces, the Izvestia newspaper said on Tuesday, citing a source familiar with the decision.
Efforts to launch the construction of the fourth nuclear-powered cruiser of Project 955 Borei, scheduled for December 22, could be cancelled, according to the newspaper.
“Regrettably, I am not authorized to take decisions on this issue [the construction of the nuclear-powered cruiser]. It is a matter for the Navy and the Defense Ministry. Everything depends on their decisions, including those dealing with this project. We need to analyze all this. A state commission will work,” said Izvestia, citing Nikolai Kalistratov, general director of Sevmashpredpriyatiye, an enterprise appointed to build fourth-generation nuclear submarines.
The recent failed launches of the Bulava sea-based ballistic missile have driven the program to develop this missile and ships designed to carry it into a deadlock, the newspaper said.
“Neither the Defense Ministry nor the defense sector wants to assume responsibility for the future of this missile and this submarine,” it said.
Russia and CIS Defense & Policy Blog Bulava failures could lead to indefinite delay in Borei program
jakojako777
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Russia finally inks deal to build 6 Kilo class submarines for Vietnam
DATELINE: MOSCOW Dec 15
Russia has been contracted to supply Vietnam with six diesel-electric submarines of Project 636 Varshavyanka (NATO reporting name: Kilo), to train Vietnamese crews for them, and to provide equipment for the vessels, a defense industry source told Interfax on Tuesday.
The contract was signed during a visit to Moscow by Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung.
The general director of state weapons exporter Rosoboronexport, Anatoly Isaikin, signed the contract on behalf of Russia. The signatory for Vietnam is the commander of the navy, Vice Adm. Nguyen Van Hieu, the source said.
Russia and CIS Defense & Policy Blog Russia finally inks deal to build 6 Kilo class submarines for Vietnam
DATELINE: MOSCOW Dec 15
Russia has been contracted to supply Vietnam with six diesel-electric submarines of Project 636 Varshavyanka (NATO reporting name: Kilo), to train Vietnamese crews for them, and to provide equipment for the vessels, a defense industry source told Interfax on Tuesday.
The contract was signed during a visit to Moscow by Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung.
The general director of state weapons exporter Rosoboronexport, Anatoly Isaikin, signed the contract on behalf of Russia. The signatory for Vietnam is the commander of the navy, Vice Adm. Nguyen Van Hieu, the source said.
Russia and CIS Defense & Policy Blog Russia finally inks deal to build 6 Kilo class submarines for Vietnam
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Russia wants more Israeli spy drones
Russia wants more Israeli spy drones
TEL AVIV, Israel, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Russia is seeking to acquire more Israeli unmanned aerial vehicles under a $100 million deal that has more to do with bribing Moscow not to supply Iran with state-of-the-art air-defense missiles that could skewer any Israeli air assault than it has with dollars and cents.
Russia has not been able to produce an effective UAV, a weakness exposed during its brief 2008 conflict with Georgia, and it has made no secret of the fact that it wants to reverse-engineer the Israeli craft to fast-track production.
Moscow bought 12 Israeli UAVs under a $53 million deal signed in April with state-owned Israel Aerospace Industries, but not disclosed until June. These comprise IAI's second-tier craft, the Bird-Eye 400 mini-UAV, the I-View MK 150 tactical UAV and the Searcher Mark 2 medium-range UAV.
That was Israel's first sale of military platforms to Russia. It was also Russia's first purchase of a foreign weapons system.
Israeli defense sources say that the new deal under negotiation with IAI involved improved surveillance equipment. IAI declined comment, but one Israeli sources noted: "The Russians are going for a triple upgrade of their fleet and its capabilities."
According to other sources, Russia wants 50 Israeli UAVs, particularly long-endurance craft.
That likely includes IAI's Heron, the largest Israeli surveillance drone with a 54-foot wingspan. It has the ability to stay aloft for 50 hours at a time at an altitude of 30,000 feet. It can also carry missiles and can be refueled in flight from tanker aircraft.
It was Georgia's use of long-endurance Hermes 450 tactical spy drones, built by Israel's Elbit Systems, to provide battlefield reconnaissance in the 2008 fighting that caught Moscow's interest.
The Russians, who had to rely on the less effective Tu-22 strategic bombers for battlefield intelligence, decided to acquire Israeli craft for the purpose of studying them and reproducing them in Russia.
The Russians have been building unmanned aircraft for several decades, but never achieved the degree of success of U.S. and Israeli companies. Their craft have only a fraction of the flight duration of the Israeli UAVs and have long had reliability problems.
Following the Georgia conflict, the Russian air force launched several UAV projects, with the objective of having operational systems by 2011. But Russian defense contractors, including the state-owned Ikut aircraft manufacturer and the Vega Radio Engineering Corp., were unable to come up with systems that met the air force's requirements.
According to various estimates, the Russians need at least 100 UAVs and at least 10 guidance systems to provide the battlefield surveillance the military needs.
In the first UAV sale to Russia in June, the Israelis withheld the most advanced UAV variants after several Russian officials publicly stated that the main reason they wanted the UAVs was to purloin their technology.
But the Israelis understood that it was vital to be able to influence Moscow, Iran's main arms supplier, to block the delivery of S-300PMU air-defense missiles to the Islamic Republic.
It wants the advanced system to protect its nuclear facilities from threatened Israeli airstrikes.
Indeed, in 2008 Gen. Amos Gilad, head of the Israeli Defense Ministry's Diplomatic Security Bureau, visited Moscow and received assurances that Russia would not provide S-300s to Iran or MiG-31 interceptor jets to Syria.
Iranian leaders have been complaining vociferously about Moscow's refusal to honor an $800 million contract for five S-300 batteries signed in 2007 as tension between the United States and Iran swelled once more over Tehran's nuclear program, raising the prospect of unilateral Israeli military action.
Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu secretly flew to Moscow several weeks ago to press President Dmitry Medvedev and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin not to send S-300s to Iran and was reportedly given renewed assurances they would not.
"The UAV sale/technology theft was basically a bribe to ensure that the Russians did not equip Iran with better anti-aircraft missiles," according to one Western analyst.
"Letting Russia steal UAV technology has suddenly become more important than keeping Iran or Syria down."
Russia wants more Israeli spy drones - UPI.com
Russia wants more Israeli spy drones
TEL AVIV, Israel, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Russia is seeking to acquire more Israeli unmanned aerial vehicles under a $100 million deal that has more to do with bribing Moscow not to supply Iran with state-of-the-art air-defense missiles that could skewer any Israeli air assault than it has with dollars and cents.
Russia has not been able to produce an effective UAV, a weakness exposed during its brief 2008 conflict with Georgia, and it has made no secret of the fact that it wants to reverse-engineer the Israeli craft to fast-track production.
Moscow bought 12 Israeli UAVs under a $53 million deal signed in April with state-owned Israel Aerospace Industries, but not disclosed until June. These comprise IAI's second-tier craft, the Bird-Eye 400 mini-UAV, the I-View MK 150 tactical UAV and the Searcher Mark 2 medium-range UAV.
That was Israel's first sale of military platforms to Russia. It was also Russia's first purchase of a foreign weapons system.
Israeli defense sources say that the new deal under negotiation with IAI involved improved surveillance equipment. IAI declined comment, but one Israeli sources noted: "The Russians are going for a triple upgrade of their fleet and its capabilities."
According to other sources, Russia wants 50 Israeli UAVs, particularly long-endurance craft.
That likely includes IAI's Heron, the largest Israeli surveillance drone with a 54-foot wingspan. It has the ability to stay aloft for 50 hours at a time at an altitude of 30,000 feet. It can also carry missiles and can be refueled in flight from tanker aircraft.
It was Georgia's use of long-endurance Hermes 450 tactical spy drones, built by Israel's Elbit Systems, to provide battlefield reconnaissance in the 2008 fighting that caught Moscow's interest.
The Russians, who had to rely on the less effective Tu-22 strategic bombers for battlefield intelligence, decided to acquire Israeli craft for the purpose of studying them and reproducing them in Russia.
The Russians have been building unmanned aircraft for several decades, but never achieved the degree of success of U.S. and Israeli companies. Their craft have only a fraction of the flight duration of the Israeli UAVs and have long had reliability problems.
Following the Georgia conflict, the Russian air force launched several UAV projects, with the objective of having operational systems by 2011. But Russian defense contractors, including the state-owned Ikut aircraft manufacturer and the Vega Radio Engineering Corp., were unable to come up with systems that met the air force's requirements.
According to various estimates, the Russians need at least 100 UAVs and at least 10 guidance systems to provide the battlefield surveillance the military needs.
In the first UAV sale to Russia in June, the Israelis withheld the most advanced UAV variants after several Russian officials publicly stated that the main reason they wanted the UAVs was to purloin their technology.
But the Israelis understood that it was vital to be able to influence Moscow, Iran's main arms supplier, to block the delivery of S-300PMU air-defense missiles to the Islamic Republic.
It wants the advanced system to protect its nuclear facilities from threatened Israeli airstrikes.
Indeed, in 2008 Gen. Amos Gilad, head of the Israeli Defense Ministry's Diplomatic Security Bureau, visited Moscow and received assurances that Russia would not provide S-300s to Iran or MiG-31 interceptor jets to Syria.
Iranian leaders have been complaining vociferously about Moscow's refusal to honor an $800 million contract for five S-300 batteries signed in 2007 as tension between the United States and Iran swelled once more over Tehran's nuclear program, raising the prospect of unilateral Israeli military action.
Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu secretly flew to Moscow several weeks ago to press President Dmitry Medvedev and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin not to send S-300s to Iran and was reportedly given renewed assurances they would not.
"The UAV sale/technology theft was basically a bribe to ensure that the Russians did not equip Iran with better anti-aircraft missiles," according to one Western analyst.
"Letting Russia steal UAV technology has suddenly become more important than keeping Iran or Syria down."
Russia wants more Israeli spy drones - UPI.com
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Su-35bm
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Koalitsija-SV Prototype self-propelled twin-barrel 152mm howitzer
Entered service -
Crew 2 men
Dimensions and weight
Weight ~ 55 t
Length (gun forward) ?
Hull length ?
Width ?
Height ?
Armament
Main gun 2 x 152-mm/155-mm howitzers
Barrel length ~ 52 calibers
Machine guns ?
Projectile weight ?
Maximum firing range ~ 40 km
Maximum rate of fire ~ 16 rpm
Elevation range ?
Traverse range ?
Ammunition load
Main gun ~ 70 rounds
Machine guns ?
Mobility
Engine ?
Engine power ?
Maximum road speed ?
Range ?
Maneuverability
Gradient ?
Side slope ?
Vertical step ?
Trench ?
Fording ?
The Koalitsija-SV (coalition) prototype twin-barrel self-propelled howitzer is a unique artillery system. The first demonstrator was completed in 2006 and uses a number of components from the 2S19 Msta-S self-propelled howitzer. However production variant of this new SPH will look differently. The Koalitsija-SV is intended to replace the ageing Russian 152-mm artillery systems.
The twin-barrel Koalitsija-SV has a high rate of fire comparing with current artillery systems. It might be around 16 rounds per minute. This artillery system will be fitted with two 152- or 155-mm howitzers. Vehicle has a fully-automatic ammunition handling and loading systems. Two barrels have a number of other advantages comparing with usual self-propelled howitzers. The Koalistsija-SV is more reliable as both guns have associated autoloaders and if one of them fails, another keeps on firing. This SPH uses both barrels in quick succession, so the guns do not overheat and have a twice longer service life. The Koalitsija-SV can load both barrels at any inclination angles. This SPH is capable of multiple round simultaneous impact firing. It can also launch two precision-guided rounds, that will hit two different targets simultaneously.
The Koalitsija-SV will have an automatic targeting and charge selection system.
The demonstrator vehicle has a crew of 5, however production Koalitsija-SV will have a high level of automation. It's crew will consists of only two men, located in a well protected compartment at the front of the hull.
Demonstrator of the Koalitsija-SV uses a modified Msta-S chassis, however production self-propelled howitzer will have a new tracked chassis. Production vehicles will be also fitted with
Entered service -
Crew 2 men
Dimensions and weight
Weight ~ 55 t
Length (gun forward) ?
Hull length ?
Width ?
Height ?
Armament
Main gun 2 x 152-mm/155-mm howitzers
Barrel length ~ 52 calibers
Machine guns ?
Projectile weight ?
Maximum firing range ~ 40 km
Maximum rate of fire ~ 16 rpm
Elevation range ?
Traverse range ?
Ammunition load
Main gun ~ 70 rounds
Machine guns ?
Mobility
Engine ?
Engine power ?
Maximum road speed ?
Range ?
Maneuverability
Gradient ?
Side slope ?
Vertical step ?
Trench ?
Fording ?
The Koalitsija-SV (coalition) prototype twin-barrel self-propelled howitzer is a unique artillery system. The first demonstrator was completed in 2006 and uses a number of components from the 2S19 Msta-S self-propelled howitzer. However production variant of this new SPH will look differently. The Koalitsija-SV is intended to replace the ageing Russian 152-mm artillery systems.
The twin-barrel Koalitsija-SV has a high rate of fire comparing with current artillery systems. It might be around 16 rounds per minute. This artillery system will be fitted with two 152- or 155-mm howitzers. Vehicle has a fully-automatic ammunition handling and loading systems. Two barrels have a number of other advantages comparing with usual self-propelled howitzers. The Koalistsija-SV is more reliable as both guns have associated autoloaders and if one of them fails, another keeps on firing. This SPH uses both barrels in quick succession, so the guns do not overheat and have a twice longer service life. The Koalitsija-SV can load both barrels at any inclination angles. This SPH is capable of multiple round simultaneous impact firing. It can also launch two precision-guided rounds, that will hit two different targets simultaneously.
The Koalitsija-SV will have an automatic targeting and charge selection system.
The demonstrator vehicle has a crew of 5, however production Koalitsija-SV will have a high level of automation. It's crew will consists of only two men, located in a well protected compartment at the front of the hull.
Demonstrator of the Koalitsija-SV uses a modified Msta-S chassis, however production self-propelled howitzer will have a new tracked chassis. Production vehicles will be also fitted with
jakojako777
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- Oct 27, 2009
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Russian Air Force gets modernised Su-24M2 bombers
MOSCOW (BNS): Russian Air Force
has received the final batch of overhauled Su-24M2 frontline bombers from the Sukhoi Company.
The aircraft were retrofitted at the VP Chkalov Novosibirsk Aircraft Production Association (NAPO) in southern Russian city of Novosibirsk, Sukhoi said in a statement.
Fitted with new equipment and systems, the modernised planes now have enhanced capabilities and improved combat efficiency. The aircraft have been sent to their respective air force bases.
The Sukhoi Su-24 (NATO name: Fencer) is an all-weather interdiction and attack aircraft built by the former Soviet Union during the 1970s and 1980s. The two-seater, twin-engine aircraft carried the USSR's first integrated digital nav/attack system.
Su-24M2 is an upgraded version of Su-24’s other variants – Su-24M and Su-24MK fighter bombers. With improved avionics, including GPS and the Russian equivalent, GLONASS, Head Up Display (HUD) and visor, and fitted with more sophisticated weapons, the Su-24M2 is an all-weather version for day and night use.
Meanwhile, NAPO has started production of modern Su-34 frontline bombers for the Russian Air Force under a contract signed in 2008 to supply 32 such planes.
Russian Air Force gets modernised Su-24M2 bombers :: Brahmand.com
MOSCOW (BNS): Russian Air Force
has received the final batch of overhauled Su-24M2 frontline bombers from the Sukhoi Company.
The aircraft were retrofitted at the VP Chkalov Novosibirsk Aircraft Production Association (NAPO) in southern Russian city of Novosibirsk, Sukhoi said in a statement.
Fitted with new equipment and systems, the modernised planes now have enhanced capabilities and improved combat efficiency. The aircraft have been sent to their respective air force bases.
The Sukhoi Su-24 (NATO name: Fencer) is an all-weather interdiction and attack aircraft built by the former Soviet Union during the 1970s and 1980s. The two-seater, twin-engine aircraft carried the USSR's first integrated digital nav/attack system.
Su-24M2 is an upgraded version of Su-24’s other variants – Su-24M and Su-24MK fighter bombers. With improved avionics, including GPS and the Russian equivalent, GLONASS, Head Up Display (HUD) and visor, and fitted with more sophisticated weapons, the Su-24M2 is an all-weather version for day and night use.
Meanwhile, NAPO has started production of modern Su-34 frontline bombers for the Russian Air Force under a contract signed in 2008 to supply 32 such planes.
Russian Air Force gets modernised Su-24M2 bombers :: Brahmand.com
jakojako777
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Tanked up
JUST PART FROM THIS ARTICLE
Moscow News - Business - Lukoil?s Basra bonanza
Tanked up
Prime Minister Vladimir Putin promised to pump almost $350 million into a tank plant as Russia eyes defence spending as a route out of recession.
Visiting the Uralvagonzavod plant in Nizhny Tagil last week, he pledged 10 billion roubles to aid the ailing factory which is heavily in debt despite controlling half the world market in armoured vehicles, Reuters reported.
But the plant, which employs 67,000 people, suffers from selling tanks to the Russian military at low prices and trying to recoup the losses by attracting lucrative overseas orders.
JUST PART FROM THIS ARTICLE
Moscow News - Business - Lukoil?s Basra bonanza
Tanked up
Prime Minister Vladimir Putin promised to pump almost $350 million into a tank plant as Russia eyes defence spending as a route out of recession.
Visiting the Uralvagonzavod plant in Nizhny Tagil last week, he pledged 10 billion roubles to aid the ailing factory which is heavily in debt despite controlling half the world market in armoured vehicles, Reuters reported.
But the plant, which employs 67,000 people, suffers from selling tanks to the Russian military at low prices and trying to recoup the losses by attracting lucrative overseas orders.
bhramos
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- Mar 21, 2009
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- 25,644
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- 37,250
Russian cadet briefly takes 4 hostage after row with girlfriend
A Russian military cadet armed with an assault rifle briefly took four people hostage in the southwest Siberian city Omsk on Friday following an argument with his girlfriend, military officials said.
A second-year student of the Omsk tank college, Denis Gapopenko, was on sentry duty when he left his post and took a taxi to his girlfriend's place. When he arrived, he took his girlfriend and three other people in the apartment hostage, local police said earlier on Friday.
"A preliminary investigation showed Denis Gapopenko's motive was an argument with his girlfriend," said Col. Oleg Yushkov, spokesman for the land forces commander.
Russian media reports said Gapopenko rushed to the city after learning his girlfriend was going to Italy to work. He was reported to have forced the taxi driver to speed to the city by pointing a gun at him.
The sentry guards were unable to stop him leaving his post, but reported the incident to the officer on duty.
Police cordoned off the house while psychologists, later joined by Gapopenko's father, negotiated with the young man. He initially let two hostages leave and released the other two - including his girlfriend - some time later.
The cadet, who did not make any demands, is now being investigated on desertion charges, which provide for up to 10 years in prison.
MOSCOW, December 18 (RIA Novosti)
Russian cadet briefly takes 4 hostage after row with girlfriend | Top Russian news and analysis online | 'RIA Novosti' newswire
A Russian military cadet armed with an assault rifle briefly took four people hostage in the southwest Siberian city Omsk on Friday following an argument with his girlfriend, military officials said.
A second-year student of the Omsk tank college, Denis Gapopenko, was on sentry duty when he left his post and took a taxi to his girlfriend's place. When he arrived, he took his girlfriend and three other people in the apartment hostage, local police said earlier on Friday.
"A preliminary investigation showed Denis Gapopenko's motive was an argument with his girlfriend," said Col. Oleg Yushkov, spokesman for the land forces commander.
Russian media reports said Gapopenko rushed to the city after learning his girlfriend was going to Italy to work. He was reported to have forced the taxi driver to speed to the city by pointing a gun at him.
The sentry guards were unable to stop him leaving his post, but reported the incident to the officer on duty.
Police cordoned off the house while psychologists, later joined by Gapopenko's father, negotiated with the young man. He initially let two hostages leave and released the other two - including his girlfriend - some time later.
The cadet, who did not make any demands, is now being investigated on desertion charges, which provide for up to 10 years in prison.
MOSCOW, December 18 (RIA Novosti)
Russian cadet briefly takes 4 hostage after row with girlfriend | Top Russian news and analysis online | 'RIA Novosti' newswire
jakojako777
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Russian cadet with his hostage girlfriend
ppgj
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- Aug 13, 2009
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MiG Corporation is 70 years old
17:13 08/12/2009
On December 8, the Russian aircraft corporation MiG, formerly called the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau, celebrates its 70th anniversary.
MiG, one of the most popular Soviet aircraft brands, was known all over the world and came to symbolize just about any Soviet warplane, except long-range bombers, in the West during the Cold War.
And in fact, MiG's glory was well-deserved.
The MiG Design Bureau pioneered the development of post-war turbojet fighters in the Soviet Union. Its first jet fighter, the I-300 later designated the MiG-9 Fargo, performed its maiden flight on April 24, 1946 and became the first jet fighter to enter service with the Soviet air force.
It was followed by the legendary MiG-15 Fagot, which brought lasting fame to the MiG Design Bureau and which served with Soviet and foreign air forces for over 50 years. The hard-hitting MiG-15 had three cannons and won a reputation for its high speed and excellent vertical and horizontal maneuverability.
The MiG-15 soon became the main Soviet air-superiority fighter and also entered service with other socialist countries.
The fighter's finest hour came during the 1950-1953 Korean War. In October 1950, the Soviet 64th Fighter Corps was assigned to defend logistics support and border facilities in North Korea. Chinese and North Korean air forces also received new fighters.
The MiG-15, which was the main Soviet, Chinese and North Korean fighter in that conflict, downed nearly 1,400 U.S. and other UN aircraft. 566 MiG-15s were lost in the war, including 335 Soviet MiG-15 fighters. In all, Soviet fighters downed about 1,100 enemy aircraft at the cost of 120 pilots.
The West, which does not like to discuss that conflict, usually recalls the number of downed MiG-15s and the 200-plus North American Aviation F-86 Sabre fighters shot down during the Korean War.
The F-86 Sabre, which was the best U.S. fighter of that period, could not cope with the MiG-15, which virtually controlled Soviet, Chinese and North Korean air space.
Although the MiG-15 began to be replaced with more advanced aircraft after the war, over 15,000 of these fighters were manufactured, making them the most popular jet-fighter model in history. In fact, the Albanian air force scrapped its last MiG-15 in 2005.
Before the advent of surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems, the MiG-15 and its successors, the MiG-17 Fresco and the MiG-19 Farmer, formed a vital element of Soviet air defense throughout the 1950s.
Large fighter units, which had won a formidable reputation in the course of intensive dogfights, became a highly important deterrent at a time when Soviet nuclear weapons were still in the experimental stage and when Soviet long-range bombers were unable to reach the United States on two-way missions.
U.S. military planners realized that strategic bomber groups would be sitting ducks in Eastern Europe and Soviet air space, and that a hypothetical nuclear strike was highly unlikely to inflict unacceptable damage on the U.S.S.R.
The MiG-21, which first took off in 1958 and whose production was launched in 1959, is still in service. The MiG-23 Flogger fighter and its modified version, the MiG-27 Flogger-D/J, the MiG-25 Foxbat and MiG-31 Foxhound interceptors, as well as the MiG-29 Fulcrum, now being converted into the MiG-35 Fulcrum-F, continue to fly today.
MiG-29 tests conducted by the NATO air force revealed that, given equal pilot training, this fighter has an advantage over similar Western aircraft during close-range dogfights, a traditionally strong feature of Soviet warplanes, and during medium-range combat involving air-to-air missiles with a range of 20 to 30 km.
Although the MiG Design Bureau faced major problems after the break-up of the Soviet Union, the situation is now improving. The company now repairs and upgrades previously manufactured aircraft for the Russian and foreign air forces.
The MiG Corporation continues to sign additional contracts. Federal funding has allowed it to develop the state-of-the-art MiG-35 which, as experts say, has good market prospects.
The company is also developing a fifth-generation fighter, due to appear in the next decade.
MOSCOW. (RIA Novosti military commentator Ilya Kramnik)
The opinions expressed in this article are the author's and do not necessarily represent those of RIA Novosti.
http://en.rian.ru/analysis/20091208/157157192.html
17:13 08/12/2009
On December 8, the Russian aircraft corporation MiG, formerly called the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau, celebrates its 70th anniversary.
MiG, one of the most popular Soviet aircraft brands, was known all over the world and came to symbolize just about any Soviet warplane, except long-range bombers, in the West during the Cold War.
And in fact, MiG's glory was well-deserved.
The MiG Design Bureau pioneered the development of post-war turbojet fighters in the Soviet Union. Its first jet fighter, the I-300 later designated the MiG-9 Fargo, performed its maiden flight on April 24, 1946 and became the first jet fighter to enter service with the Soviet air force.
It was followed by the legendary MiG-15 Fagot, which brought lasting fame to the MiG Design Bureau and which served with Soviet and foreign air forces for over 50 years. The hard-hitting MiG-15 had three cannons and won a reputation for its high speed and excellent vertical and horizontal maneuverability.
The MiG-15 soon became the main Soviet air-superiority fighter and also entered service with other socialist countries.
The fighter's finest hour came during the 1950-1953 Korean War. In October 1950, the Soviet 64th Fighter Corps was assigned to defend logistics support and border facilities in North Korea. Chinese and North Korean air forces also received new fighters.
The MiG-15, which was the main Soviet, Chinese and North Korean fighter in that conflict, downed nearly 1,400 U.S. and other UN aircraft. 566 MiG-15s were lost in the war, including 335 Soviet MiG-15 fighters. In all, Soviet fighters downed about 1,100 enemy aircraft at the cost of 120 pilots.
The West, which does not like to discuss that conflict, usually recalls the number of downed MiG-15s and the 200-plus North American Aviation F-86 Sabre fighters shot down during the Korean War.
The F-86 Sabre, which was the best U.S. fighter of that period, could not cope with the MiG-15, which virtually controlled Soviet, Chinese and North Korean air space.
Although the MiG-15 began to be replaced with more advanced aircraft after the war, over 15,000 of these fighters were manufactured, making them the most popular jet-fighter model in history. In fact, the Albanian air force scrapped its last MiG-15 in 2005.
Before the advent of surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems, the MiG-15 and its successors, the MiG-17 Fresco and the MiG-19 Farmer, formed a vital element of Soviet air defense throughout the 1950s.
Large fighter units, which had won a formidable reputation in the course of intensive dogfights, became a highly important deterrent at a time when Soviet nuclear weapons were still in the experimental stage and when Soviet long-range bombers were unable to reach the United States on two-way missions.
U.S. military planners realized that strategic bomber groups would be sitting ducks in Eastern Europe and Soviet air space, and that a hypothetical nuclear strike was highly unlikely to inflict unacceptable damage on the U.S.S.R.
The MiG-21, which first took off in 1958 and whose production was launched in 1959, is still in service. The MiG-23 Flogger fighter and its modified version, the MiG-27 Flogger-D/J, the MiG-25 Foxbat and MiG-31 Foxhound interceptors, as well as the MiG-29 Fulcrum, now being converted into the MiG-35 Fulcrum-F, continue to fly today.
MiG-29 tests conducted by the NATO air force revealed that, given equal pilot training, this fighter has an advantage over similar Western aircraft during close-range dogfights, a traditionally strong feature of Soviet warplanes, and during medium-range combat involving air-to-air missiles with a range of 20 to 30 km.
Although the MiG Design Bureau faced major problems after the break-up of the Soviet Union, the situation is now improving. The company now repairs and upgrades previously manufactured aircraft for the Russian and foreign air forces.
The MiG Corporation continues to sign additional contracts. Federal funding has allowed it to develop the state-of-the-art MiG-35 which, as experts say, has good market prospects.
The company is also developing a fifth-generation fighter, due to appear in the next decade.
MOSCOW. (RIA Novosti military commentator Ilya Kramnik)
The opinions expressed in this article are the author's and do not necessarily represent those of RIA Novosti.
http://en.rian.ru/analysis/20091208/157157192.html
bhramos
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- Mar 21, 2009
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Russia to start construction of 4th Borey-class sub in early 2010
A Russian shipyard will start building a fourth Borey class (Project 955) strategic submarine in early 2010, the Navy's chief said on Monday.
Vladimir Vysotsky said the postponement of the submarine construction from late this year to early next year was not linked to the latest unsuccessful launch of Russia's troubled Bulava intercontinental missile.
The latest launch of the missile, which Russia hopes will be a key element of its nuclear forces, from a submarine in the White Sea ended in failure on December 9. Only five of 12 Bulava launches have been officially reported as being successful.
The Bulava (SS-NX-30) SLBM carries up to 10 MIRV warheads and has a range of over 8,000 kilometers (5,000 miles). The three-stage solid-propellant ballistic missile is designed for deployment on Borey class nuclear-powered submarines.
The Bulava, along with Topol-M land-based ballistic missiles, is expected to become the core of Russia's nuclear triad.
The future development of the Bulava has been questioned by some lawmakers and defense industry officials, who have suggested that all efforts should be focused on the existing Sineva SLBM.
But the Russian military has insisted that there is no alternative to the Bulava and pledged to continue testing the missile until it is ready to be put in service with the Navy.
MOSCOW, December 21 (RIA Novosti)
Russia to start construction of 4th Borey-class sub in early 2010 | Top Russian news and analysis online | 'RIA Novosti' newswire
A Russian shipyard will start building a fourth Borey class (Project 955) strategic submarine in early 2010, the Navy's chief said on Monday.
Vladimir Vysotsky said the postponement of the submarine construction from late this year to early next year was not linked to the latest unsuccessful launch of Russia's troubled Bulava intercontinental missile.
The latest launch of the missile, which Russia hopes will be a key element of its nuclear forces, from a submarine in the White Sea ended in failure on December 9. Only five of 12 Bulava launches have been officially reported as being successful.
The Bulava (SS-NX-30) SLBM carries up to 10 MIRV warheads and has a range of over 8,000 kilometers (5,000 miles). The three-stage solid-propellant ballistic missile is designed for deployment on Borey class nuclear-powered submarines.
The Bulava, along with Topol-M land-based ballistic missiles, is expected to become the core of Russia's nuclear triad.
The future development of the Bulava has been questioned by some lawmakers and defense industry officials, who have suggested that all efforts should be focused on the existing Sineva SLBM.
But the Russian military has insisted that there is no alternative to the Bulava and pledged to continue testing the missile until it is ready to be put in service with the Navy.
MOSCOW, December 21 (RIA Novosti)
Russia to start construction of 4th Borey-class sub in early 2010 | Top Russian news and analysis online | 'RIA Novosti' newswire
