Belarus Conducts First Firings from Upgraded Buk-MB SAM

Within the framework of the Systems for Countering Precision Weapons project, the Goscomvoyenprom companies are carrying out the comprehensive improvement of surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems in service with the Belarusian Armed Forces and development of new systems.
In the middle of May 2017, on the territory of the former Polessky airfield, within the framework of the development of a new SAM system, Belarus conducted first firings from the upgraded Buk-MB SAM involving the launch of missiles against two types of targets – air target simulators, including unmanned aerial vehicles, and a 5V27D surface-to-air missile simulating a fast-moving target.
A good result was obtained during the verification of some specifications of the SAM system: both targets were destroyed in the engagement zone with the expenditure of one missile per target.
The Buk-MB was developed by the Goscomvoyenprom companies, including AGAT-Control Systems, 2566 REARP, OKB TSP, and 140 Repair Plant. The Buk-MB differs qualitatively from its predecessor system – the Buk SAM and its upgraded version Buk-M1-2, which are already in service with the Belarusian Armed Forces.
The Buk-MB SAM is able to work with any types of modern C4I systems and digital radars. The RLS-50 autonomous three-dimensional solid-state digital phased-array radar, which makes it possible to effectively detect stealthy aerial targets, was successfully tested during the combat firings.
The fundamentally new solutions incorporated in the Buk-MB SAM have increased the target detection range of the TELAR’s radar by 30%, as well as significantly improved the characteristics of anti-jamming and clutter rejection systems.
The Buk-MB can use three types of SAM missiles (9M38, 9M38M1, 9M317) on one launcher in any combination of them, as well as perform automatic target recognition based on trajectory characteristics and automated target recognition based on the sound image.
Full automation of the control process has reduced the time of performance monitoring and made it possible to apply automatic equipment diagnostics up to the replaceable unit.
The built-in integrated training system allows training operators both in the Buk-MB SAM and autonomously in combat components (command post, TELAR). The training system makes it possible to train crews taking into account the jamming environment and reflections from the underlying surface.
The Buk-MB features enhanced survivability in the conditions of using anti-radar missiles and projectiles.
We are confident that the Buk-MB will occupy a worthy place in the arms market.
It is assumed that the results obtained will be used to develop a medium-range SAM system that meets modern requirements and can protect the country’s peaceful sky from constantly improving air attack weapons.

Translated by Olga Klevko