Advancements in Air Defense: The Igla-S MANPADS

Introduction:

• Russia recently inked a significant contract with India for the supply of Igla-S, a cutting-edge man-portable air defense system (MANPADS). This move not only strengthens diplomatic ties but also allows India to produce the Igla-S under license. Known as SA-24 Grinch in the West, the Igla-S entered service with the Russian Army in 2004 and has since proven to be a formidable asset in air defense.

Key Features of Igla-S:

Development and Overview:

• The Igla-S is a MANPADS designed and developed by Russia.
• Widely recognized as SA-24 Grinch in Western military circles.
• Officially adopted by the Russian Army in 2004.

Operational Capabilities:

• The system can be operated by either an individual or a crew, providing flexibility in deployment.
• Designed to effectively engage and neutralize low-flying aircraft.
• Demonstrates versatility by identifying and countering various air threats, including cruise missiles and drones.

System Components:

• The Igla-S system consists of combat equipment, featuring the 9M342 missile and the 9P522 launching mechanism.
• Maintenance equipment includes the 9V866-2 mobile test station and the 9F719-2 test set.

Technical Specifications:

• Boasting an impressive effective range of up to 6 km.
• The system is optimized for effective target destruction at a limiting altitude of 3.5 km.
• Equipped with a more substantial warhead for increased damage capabilities, incorporating both contact and timed fuzes.
• The warhead, a high-explosive fragmentation (HE-FRAG), weighs 2.5 kg.
• Homing guidance is achieved through infrared technology.

Conclusion:

• The Igla-S MANPADS stands at the forefront of modern air defense systems, showcasing its adaptability to diverse operational scenarios. With its advanced features, including a powerful warhead and infrared guidance, the Igla-S exemplifies a formidable deterrent against a spectrum of airborne threats. The recent collaboration between Russia and India signifies not only a strategic partnership but also the continued evolution of defense capabilities on the global stage.