SAMI Successfully Completes Final Stage of Testing for the First Domestic Air-to-Air Missile

On 10 December 2024, Belarusian armourers together with the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Belarus successfully tested the first domestic 9M318 air-to-air missile developed by the State Authority for Military Industry at the aviation range. 

This live firing was the final stage in the development of the Belarusian Buk-MB2 air defense missile system (ADMS), which has been adopted into service. With the integration of the domestic guided missile 9M318, the engagement range of this ADMS has increased to 70 kilometers.

The 9M318 air-to-air missile is designed to engage high-speed, maneuvering aerodynamic targets, including tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, aircraft, anti-ship missiles, and helicopters (even in hover mode). It operates effectively under conditions of intensive electronic countermeasures and can also target surface and radio-contrast ground objects. This missile utilizes advanced technologies and takes into account global advancements in missile engineering, incorporating composite materials. 

Additionally, the 9M318 missile is equipped with an active homing head, enabling it to successfully engage targets with low radar reflectivity, thus enhancing the probability of a successful hit. This feature allows the ADMS to release the target engagement channel without having to wait for the target to be confirmed as hit.