Il sistema missilistico “Pantsir” (in russo: Панцирь, lit. '"Carapace")

Il sistema missilistico “Pantsir” (in russo: Панцирь, lit. '"Carapace") è una famiglia di sistemi missilistici semoventi, di medio raggio, di missili terra-aria e di artiglieria antiaerea. 

A partire dal Pantsir-S1 (in russo: Панцирь-С1, nome di segnalazione NATO SA-22 Greyhound) come prima versione, è prodotto dal KBP Instrument Design Bureau di Tula, Russia. Il sistema è un ulteriore sviluppo di 2K22 Tunguska (nome di segnalazione NATO: SA-19/SA-N-11) e rappresenta la più recente tecnologia di difesa aerea utilizzando radar a schieramento progressivo sia per l'acquisizione che per il tracciamento dei bersagli.

Il Pantsir-S1 è stato progettato per fornire una difesa aerea di punto di installazioni militari/industriali/amministrative contro aerei, elicotteri, munizioni di precisione, missili da crociera e UAV; e per fornire una protezione aggiuntiva alle unità di difesa aerea contro gli attacchi aerei nemici che utilizzano munizioni di precisione, specialmente a basse o bassissime altitudini.

Progettazione

La prima versione finita è stata completata nel 1995 con il radar 1L36, successivamente ne è stata progettata un'altra. Si tratta di un sistema di difesa aerea a corto-medio raggio basato su terra, autotrasportato, cingolato o stazionario con due o tre operatori. La sua difesa aerea consiste in cannoni automatici antiaerei e missili terra-aria con radar o rilevamento ottico del bersaglio e guida radiocomandata.

Il suo scopo è la protezione di obiettivi civili e militari di punto e di area, per truppe motorizzate o meccanizzate fino alle dimensioni di un reggimento o come mezzi difensivi di sistemi di difesa aerea di più alto rango come l'S-300/S-400. Il sistema ha capacità per missioni anti-munizioni. Può colpire obiettivi sulla linea di galleggiamento/superiore all'acqua. Può operare in modalità completamente automatica. Ha la capacità di lavorare in modalità completamente passiva. La probabilità di colpire un bersaglio con 1 razzo non è inferiore a 0,7 con un tempo di reazione di 4-6 secondi. Per la sua stazione radar principale, il rilevamento precoce in altezza può essere tra 0-60° o 26-82° a seconda della modalità. Il sistema ha rivendicato vantaggi significativi rispetto ad altri sistemi, come Crotale NG (Francia), Roland-3 (Francia + USA), Rapier 2000 (Regno Unito), SeaRAM (Germania + USA). Ciò non è confermato da test comparativi, ma deriva chiaramente dal limite dichiarato delle possibilità dei sistemi (2010). Nel 2013 esisteva una variante con due stazioni radar per il rilevamento precoce “schiena contro schiena”. Il sistema ha una struttura modulare che permette una rapida e facile sostituzione di qualsiasi parte.

Dopo aver ricevuto le coordinate del bersaglio (da qualsiasi fonte) può ingaggiare il bersaglio (utilizzando tutti i radar tranne quello di rilevamento precoce) entro un range da -5 a +85 (82) gradi (verticale). L'intervallo tra i lanci dei missili è di 1-1,5 secondi (un record mondiale per sistemi analogici).

Il sistema missilistico S-400 Triumf e Pantsir può essere integrato in un sistema di difesa a due strati.

Sviluppo

In origine i sistemi missilistici strategici sovietici erano stati collocati in siti fissi e protetti. I sistemi più recenti, come l'S-300PS/PM (SA-10/20), erano invece molto più mobili, il che riduceva le vulnerabilità agli attacchi. Tuttavia, una volta trovata dalle forze nemiche, l'unità S-300 era ancora molto vulnerabile agli attacchi massicci. Uno dei ruoli del Pantsir-S è quello di fornire una protezione antiaerea ai sistemi missilistici S-300.

Si è anche deciso che un telaio su ruote sarebbe stato più adatto per il Pantsir-S piuttosto che un telaio cingolato, sulla base del fatto che i veicoli su ruote sono più veloci, meno soggetti a guasti, più facili da mantenere e più economici da produrre.

Lo sviluppo come Pantsir-S è iniziato nel 1990 come previsto successore di Tunguska M1. Un prototipo è stato completato nel 1994 ed esposto al MAKS-1995. Il programma incontrò ben presto delle difficoltà che portarono ad un blocco dei finanziamenti. Tuttavia, la KBP ha continuato a sviluppare il programma utilizzando i propri fondi. Ciò ha portato ad una completa riprogettazione sia della torretta che del sistema radar e alla rimozione di qualsiasi apparecchiatura Tunguska più vecchia.

Il sistema ha due nuovi radar con una portata maggiore, in grado di tracciare più bersagli aerei ma anche terrestri e ha un sistema IFF integrato. All'interno della cabina due nuovi display LCD multifunzione hanno sostituito il display CRT multiplo e un nuovo sistema computerizzato centrale ha ridotto notevolmente il tempo di reazione. Il funzionamento con un solo operatore può essere ottenuto quando necessario. Grazie alle nuove tecnologie adottate, il volume complessivo della stazione d'arma si riduce di un terzo, mentre il peso complessivo si dimezza. Il sistema ha anche migliorato i missili (dal tipo 57E6 al tipo 57E6-E probabilmente intercambiabili) e i cannoni (dal tipo 2A72 al tipo 2A38M).

Le prove di tiro reali si sono svolte nel giugno 2006 al poligono di tiro di Kapustin Yar, nella regione di Astrakhan, Russia. La serie di prove finali prima della consegna nel maggio 2007 a Kapustin Yar comprendeva una marcia forzata di 250 km (160 mi) verso una posizione di lancio impreparata che simulava la realizzazione di una tipica missione di difesa aerea.

Il sistema missilistico di difesa aerea Pantsir-S1 è stato adottato per il servizio presso l'esercito russo su ordine del Presidente del Governo della Federazione Russa Dmitry Medvedev il 16 novembre 2012. Il Pantsir-S2 modernizzato è entrato in servizio nel 2015.

Versioni

La Russia sta sviluppando un sistema Pantsir su binario per essere più manovrabile con le forze di terra e le truppe aeree russe:

• Pantsir-S1 - Questa è la prima versione e la più numerosa prodotta dal 2008-2013 e altre previste per il 2019. La Serbia ha annunciato il suo acquisto nel 2019 in occasione di "Slavic Shield" (formazione). La spedizione sarà consegnata e pienamente operativa nel febbraio 2020.
• Pantsir-S1M - La nuova variante aggiornata del Pantsir-S1 è stata presentata per la prima volta nel febbraio 2019 come alcuni dei modelli previsti. Dispone di un radar di ricerca in banda L potenziato con capacità di tracciare fino a 40 bersagli contemporaneamente e di un nuovo radar multifunzionale EHF per il controllo del fuoco che può ingaggiare quattro bersagli contemporaneamente, entrambi dotati di array AESA. Il sistema utilizza anche il nuovo missile terra-aria 57E6M-E con un massimale aumentato da 15 a 18 km (da 9,3 a 11,2 mi), un raggio d'ingaggio da 20 a 30 km (da 12 a 19 mi) e una velocità da 1.300 a 1.700 m/s (da 4.700 a 6.100 km/h; da 2.900 a 3.800 mph), nonché una testata a frammentazione più pesante da 25 kg, rispetto alla testata da 20 kg del missile 57E6-E standard.
• Pantsir-M/EM - Articolo principale: Pantsir-M - La variante navale del Pantsir-S1, con base a terra, è stata presentata per la prima volta nel luglio 2015. Il sistema utilizza due cannoni rotanti GSh-6-30K/AO-18KD da 30 mm (1.2 in) a sei canne, come si trova sul CIWS Kashtan/Kortik, otto missili invece 12 e un radar aggiuntivo separato da quello montato sulla torretta stessa. Il Pantsir-M può ingaggiare contemporaneamente quattro bersagli con quattro missili ad un'altitudine da 2 a 15 km e ad un raggio di 20 km. Il sistema ha una scorta di munizioni di 32 missili ed è composto da diversi moduli di combattimento, compreso il modulo di fornitura di munizioni nel sistema di stoccaggio e ricarica sotto il ponte. Può essere equipaggiato con missili terra-aria provenienti sia dai sistemi di difesa aerea Pantsir-S che Hermes-K con una portata massima di tiro dei successivi fino a 100 km (62 mi). In futuro sostituirà il CIWS Kashtan/Kortik su tutte le navi da guerra della marina russa, a partire dalle corvette della classe Karakurt nel 2018. Le prove di Pantsir-M/ME sono iniziate nel dicembre 2017 e il sistema è entrato in servizio nel febbraio 2019.
• Pantsir-S2/S2E - Sistema modernizzato per le Forze Armate e per l'esportazione. Incorpora un nuovo radar per l'inseguimento, due radar a fronte con caratteristiche e portata migliorate. È in servizio con Russia, Algeria e Serbia
• Pantsir-SM - La variante Pantsir-SM incorpora una stazione di puntamento multifunzionale, aumentando il raggio di rilevamento del bersaglio da 40 a 75 km (da 25 a 47 mi) e il raggio di ingaggio da 20 a 40 km (da 12 a 25 mi). Il sistema utilizza anche un nuovo missile ad alta velocità a raggio esteso e i sistemi Pantsir esistenti possono essere aggiornati allo standard SM. È montato su un nuovo telaio per autocarri Kamaz 8×8 con cabina corazzata. Lo sviluppo è stato completato nel 2019.
• Pantsir-SA - Dopo aver testato Pantsir nell'Artico, si è deciso di progettare una nuova versione specifica per l'Artico, da utilizzare a temperature inferiori a -50°C (-58°F), chiamata Pantsir-SA. Questa versione non ha un cannone automatico da 30 mm montato.
• SISTEMA CIWS IMBARCATO “PANTSIR-M” - Pantsir-M è un sistema d'arma navale RUSSO, resistente agli inceppamenti (CIWS), entrato in servizio nel 2018. Pantsir-M è dotato di un sistema di identificazione IFF e armato con la versione navale dei missili Pantsir 57E6 e dei missili Hermes-K. Il suo armamento secondario è costituito da due cannoni rotativi a sei canne 30×165mm GSh-6-30K/AO-18KD (portata 5 km). Come sul Kashtan-M. Pantsir-M è completamente automatizzato e può ingaggiare fino a quattro bersagli contemporaneamente a una distanza massima di 20 km e può funzionare come una batteria di quattro moduli. Pantsir-M è in grado di intercettare i missili a sfioramento marino che volano fino a due metri sopra la superficie. Se un bersaglio non è sufficientemente distrutto dall'attacco missilistico di Pantsir, può automaticamente indirizzare i suoi cannoni contro di esso. Il radar ad allineamento di fase di Pantsir-M, il sistema di puntamento elettro-ottico/infrarosso e di identificazione si basa su quello di Pantsir 1RS2-1. Secondo il CEO di Rostec, Sergey Chemezov, il potere distruttivo di Pantsir-M è da tre a quattro volte superiore a quello di Kashtan-M. Pantsir-M sostituirà i sistemi Kashtan-M nella marina russa.

Parametri tecnici:

• Raggio d'azione: 20 km
• Altitudine: 15 km
• Tempo di reazione: 3–5 s
• Velocità di fuoco: 10000 colpi al minuto
• Versioni: Ci sono due versioni: la versione domestica Pantsir-M e la versione per l'esportazione Pantsir-ME.

ENGLISH

The Pantsir (Russian: Панцирь, lit. '"Carapace"') missile system is a family of self-propelled, medium-range surface-to-air missile and anti-aircraft artillery systems. Starting with the Pantsir-S1 (Russian: Панцирь-С1, NATO reporting name SA-22 Greyhound) as the first version, it is produced by KBP Instrument Design Bureau of Tula, Russia. The system is a further development of 2K22 Tunguska (NATO reporting name: SA-19/SA-N-11) and represents the latest air defence technology by using phased array radars for both target acquisition and tracking.

The Pantsir-S1 was designed to provide point air defence of military/industrial/administrative installations against aircraft, helicopters, precision munitions, cruise missiles and UAVs; and to provide additional protection to air defence units against enemy air attacks employing precision munitions, especially at low to extremely low altitudes.

Design

The first finished version was completed in 1995 with the 1L36 radar, later another was designed. It is a short to medium range ground-based air defence system, wheeled, tracked or stationary with two to three operators. Its air defense consists of automatic anti-aircraft guns and surface-to-air missiles with radar or optical target-tracking and radio-command guidance.

Its purpose is the protection of civil and military point and area targets, for motorised or mechanised troops up to regimental size or as defensive asset of higher ranking air defence systems like S-300/S-400. The system has capability for anti-munitions missions. It can hit targets on the waterline/above-water. It can operate in a fully automatic mode. It has the ability to work in a completely passive mode. The probability of hitting a target for 1 rocket is not less than 0.7 with a reaction time of 4–6 seconds.It can fire missiles and gun armament while in motion. For its main radar station, early detection in height may be between 0-60° or 26-82° depending on the mode. The system has claimed significant advantages over other systems, such as Crotale NG (France), Roland-3 (France + USA), Rapier 2000 (UK), SeaRAM (Germany + USA). This is not confirmed by comparative testing, but clearly follows from declared limit of possibilities of systems (2010). In 2013, there was a variant with two radar stations for early detection * standing back to back *. The system has a modular structure which enables a fast and easy replacement of any part.

After receiving target coordinates (from any source) it may defeat the target (using all the radar except the early detection radar) within a range from -5 to +85 (82) degrees (vertical). The interval between missile launches is 1-1.5 seconds (a world record for analogue systems).

S-400 Triumf and Pantsir missile system can be integrated into a two-layer defense system.

Development

Originally Soviet strategic missile systems had been placed in fixed, hardened sites. Newer systems such as the S-300PS/PM (SA-10/20) on the other hand were much more mobile which reduced vulnerabilities to attack. However, once the S-300 unit was found by enemy forces it was still very vulnerable to massive attack. One of the roles for the Pantsir-S is to provide air defence to the S-300 missile systems.

It was also decided that a wheeled chassis would be better suited for the Pantsir-S rather than a tracked chassis, on grounds that wheeled vehicles are faster, less prone to breakdowns, easier to maintain, and cheaper to produce.

Development as Pantsir-S started in 1990 as a planned successor of Tunguska M1. A prototype was completed in 1994 and displayed at the MAKS-1995. The program soon ran into difficulties which resulted in a halt in funding. However, KBP continued development of the program using its own funds. This resulted in a complete re-design of both the turret and radar systems and removal of any older Tunguska equipment.

The system has two new radars with increased range, capable of tracking more air targets but also land targets and has an integrated IFF system. Within the cabin two new LCD multi-function displays have replaced the multiple CRT display and a new central computer system greatly decreased the reaction time. Single operator operation can be achieved when needed. Due to the new technologies adopted, the overall volume of the weapon station is reduced by a third while the overall weight is reduced by half. The system also has enhanced missiles (from type 57E6 to type 57E6-E probably interchangeable) and guns (from type 2A72 to type 2A38M).

Live firing tests took place in June 2006 at the Kapustin Yar firing range, Astrakhan Region, Russia. Final test series prior to delivery in May 2007 at Kapustin Yar included a forced march of 250 km (160 mi) to an unprepared launch position simulating the accomplishing of a typical air-defence mission.

The Pantsir-S1 air-defence missile-gun system was adopted for service with the Russian Army by an order of the Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev on 16 November 2012. Modernized Pantsir-S2 entered service in 2015.

Versions

Russia is developing a track-based Pantsir system to be more maneuverable with Russian Ground Forces and Airborne Troops.

Pantsir-S1

This is first version and most numerously produced from 2008-2013 and more planned in 2019. Serbia announced its purchase of this in 2019 during 'Slavic Shield' (training). The shipment will be delivered and fully operational in February 2020.

Pantsir-S1M

New upgraded variant of the Pantsir-S1 first unveiled in February 2019 as some of the planned models. It has an upgraded L-band search radar with ability to track up to 40 targets at once and new multifunctional EHF fire-control radar that can engage four targets simultaneously, both fitted with phased antenna arrays. The system also uses new 57E6M-E surface-to-air missile with increased ceiling from 15 to 18 km (9.3 to 11.2 mi), engagement range from 20 to 30 km (12 to 19 mi) and speed 1,300 to 1,700 m/s (4,700 to 6,100 km/h; 2,900 to 3,800 mph) as well as with heavier 25 kg fragmentation warhead, compared to the 20 kg warhead of the standard 57E6-E missile.

Pantsir-M/EM

Main article: Pantsir-M

Naval variant of the land-based Pantsir-S1 first unveiled in July 2015. The system uses two GSh-6-30K/AO-18KD 30 mm (1.2 in) six-barrel rotary cannons, as found on the Kashtan/Kortik CIWS, eight missiles instead 12 and an additional radar separate from the one fitted on top of the turret itself. The Pantsir-M can simultaneously engage four targets with four missiles in an altitude from 2 to 15 km and at a range of 20 km. The system has an ammunition supply of 32 missiles and is comprised by several combat modules, including mmunition supply modul in the storage and reloading system under the deck. It may by fitted with surface-to-air missiles from both Pantsir-S and Hermes-K air defence systems with maximum firing range of the later up to 100 km (62 mi). In the future it will replace the Kashtan/Kortik CIWS on all Russian Navy's warships, starting by Karakurt-class corvettes in 2018. Trials of Pantsir-M/ME began in December 2017, and the system entered service in February 2019.

Pantsir-S2/S2E

Modernized system for the Armed Forces and for export. Incorporates new tracking radar, two faced radars with enhanced features and range. It is in service with Russia, Algeria and Serbia

Pantsir-SM

The Pantsir-SM variant incorporates a multi-functional targeting station, increasing target detection range from 40 to 75 km (25 to 47 mi) and engagement range from 20 to 40 km (12 to 25 mi). The system also uses a new high-speed extended range missile, and existing Pantsir systems can be upgraded to SM standard. It is fitted to a new 8×8 Kamaz truck chassis with an armored cab. Development completed in 2019.

Pantsir-SA

After testing Pantsir in the Arctic, it was decided to design a new version specifically for the Arctic, to use at temperatures below −50°C (−58 °F) called Pantsir-SA. This version has no 30 mm auto-cannon mounted.

Operations

The specific feature of the Pantsir-S1 system is the combination of a multiple-band target acquisition and tracking system in conjunction with a combined missile and gun armament creating a continuous target engagement zone from 5 m (16 ft) height and 200 m (660 ft) range up to 15 km (9.3 mi) height and 20 km (12 mi) range, even without any external support.

Modes

Using a digital data link system up to six Pantsir-S1 combat vehicle can operate in various modes.

Stand-alone combat operation: All the combat sequence from detecting a target to its engagement is fulfilled by a single Pantsir-S1 combat vehicle without employing other assets.

Operation within a battery ("master-slave"): One Pantsir-S1 operates both as combat vehicle and as "master" command post. Three to 5 Pantsir-S1 combat vehicles acting as "slave" receive target designation data from the "master" and subsequently fulfil all the combat operation stages.

Operation within a command post: The command post sends target designations to the Pantsir-S1 combat vehicles and subsequently fulfill the designation order.

Operation within a battery with command post and early warning radar: The command post receives air situation picture from a connected early warning radar and sends target designations to the Pantsir-S1 combat vehicles and subsequently fulfil the designation order.

Prototypes:

• Pantsir-S prototype from 1994 was built on Ural-5323 8×8 truck.
• Actual Pantsir-S1 is built on KAMAZ-6560 8x8 38t truck with 400 hp (300 kW).
• UAE Pantsir-S1 is built on German MAN SX 45 8×8 truck.
• Pantsir-S1 is also proposed to be built on an MZKT-7930 8×8 truck with 680 hp (510 kW) from the Belarus company "Minsk Wheeled Tractor Plant"
• A further Pantsir-S1 option is a tracked chassis type GM-352M1E from the Belarus company "Minsk Tractor Plant".
• KBP offers also a stationary variant built on a container probably able to be mounted on ships also.

Armament

Missiles

Pantsir-S1 carries up to twelve 57E6 (export designation 57E6-E) two-stage solid fuel radio/optical command-guided surface-to-air missiles in sealed ready-to-launch container tubes. Missiles are arranged into two six-tube groups on the turret. The missile has a bicalibre body, consisting of two stages in a tandem configuration. The first stage is a booster, providing rapid acceleration within the first 2 seconds of flight, after which it is separated from the sustainer-stage. The sustainer is highly agile and contains the high explosive multiple continuous-rod/fragmentation warhead, as well as the contact and proximity fuses, guidance flare and radio transponder. The missile is not fitted with a seeker to keep target engagement costs low. Target and missile tracking is instead provided via the system's multiband sensor system and guidance data is submitted via radio link for up to four missiles in flight. The system is capable of tracking and guiding four missiles fired at four distinct targets; operationally, however, two missile salvos are typically fired at each target. The 57E6 missile is believed to have a kill probability of 70–90%, and have a 15-year storage lifetime in its sealed launch container. Pantsir-S1 combat vehicles can fire missiles on the move.

Additional missiles, one specifically designed to engage unmanned aerial vehicles, and another one hypersonic, developing speeds of more than Mach 5, have been developed for the Pantsir system.

Autocannon

Two dual 2A38M 30 mm (1.2 in) autocannon guns are fitted with 700 rounds of a variety of ammunition—HE (High Explosive) fragmentation, fragmentation tracer, and armour-piercing with tracer. Ammunition type can be selected by the crew depending on the nature of the target. Maximum rate of fire is 2,500 rounds per minute per gun. Range is up to 4 km (2.5 mi). The combined gun-missile system has an extremely low altitude engagement capability (targets as low as 0 m AGL can be engaged by this system).

Wheeled combat vehicles have to be jacked up to keep the machine in the horizontal position and be able to fire the gun with full accuracy. The KAMAZ-6560 has four oil hydraulic jacks for this purpose.

• Gun: Designation: 2A38M
• Type: twin-barrel automatic anti-aircraft gun
• Calibre: 30 mm (1.2 in)
• Maximum rate of fire: 2,500 rounds per minute per gun
• Muzzle velocity: 960 m/s (3,100 ft/s)
• Projectile weight: 0.97 kg (2.1 lb)
• Ammunition: 700 rounds per gun
• Minimum range: 0.2 m (7.9 in)
• Maximum range: 4 km (2.5 mi)
• Minimum altitude: 0 m AGL
• Maximum altitude: 3 km (1.9 mi).

Fire control

The Pantsir-S1 fire control system includes a target acquisition radar and dual waveband tracking radar (designation 1RS2-1E for export models), which operates in the UHF and EHF waveband. Detection range is 32–36 kilometres (20–22 mi) and tracking range is 24–28 kilometres (15–17 mi) for a target with 2 m2 (22 sq ft) RCS. Can also reliably achieve more, to 45 km (28 mi). This radar tracks both targets and the surface-to-air missile while in flight. Minimum target size 2–3 square centimetres (0.31–0.47 sq in) (0.0004 square metres (0.0043 sq ft))

As well as radar, the fire control system also has an electro-optic channel with long-wave thermal imager and infrared direction finder, including digital signal processing and automatic target tracking. A simplified, lower-cost version of Pantsir-S1 is also being developed for export, with only the electro-optic fire control system fitted.

The two independent guidance channels—radar and electro-optic—allow two targets to be engaged simultaneously. And four for more recent options (2012). Maximum engagement rate is up to 10-12 targets per minute.

Types of purposes. Aircraft, UAVs, helicopters, anti-radar missiles (detection range of AGM-88 HARM missile 13–15 kilometres (8.1–9.3 mi)), air-launched cruise missiles.

Support vehicles

In order to increase high operational readiness KBP has designed several vehicles to support the Pantsir-S1 in the field.


Command Posts (CP)

The unit Command Post is responsible for the automated control over combat operations of Air Defence (AD) units and subunits.

Tasks accomplished by the regimental CP during warfare

Planning of combat operations and development of combat documents (commander’s decision)

Assigning of operating frequencies of regiment radio electronic assets (acquisition radar, battalions, radio assets of the CP)

Calculation of coverage angles for selected positions of an acquisition radar and its detection zones and, battalion firing sectors

Routing and displaying of battalion routes during redeployment

Survey control and orientation of regiment assets (CP, acquisition radar).

CP Capabilities

Battalion CP: up to six launchers (battalion)

Regimental CP: up to three battalions

24 hour continuous operations

Time of shutting down/deployment: 5 minutes

Number of work stations: 4

Crew: combat crew (3), driver-mechanic (1).

Transporting-loading Vehicle (TLV)

One TLV per two combat vehicles.

The TLV ensures rapid replacement of ammunition during combat operations and carries two complete ammunition loads for combat vehicle (24 missiles and 2,800 30 mm (1.2 in) rounds).

Mechanic Maintenance Vehicle

MMV carries out unit vehicles maintenance including launcher mechanical systems and carries spare parts components

Electronic Maintenance Vehicle (Launcher)

Maintenance of launcher radio-electronic and optronic systems including automated diagnostics of faulty equipment and its replacement.

The vehicle carries a load of common spare parts.

Electronic Maintenance Vehicle (Command Post)

Responsible for maintenance and repair of the CP radio-electronic systems.

Carries a stock of common spare parts.

Adjustment Vehicle

Carries out calibration of launchers radio-electronic and optronic systems.

Mechanic Maintenance Vehicle (CP)

Responsible for maintenance and repair of the CP mechanical systems and chassis.

Carries a stock of common spare parts.

Spare Parts Vehicle

This vehicle carries the common kit of spare parts, tools and accessories for the launchers.

Mobile Trainer

Designed to train the combat vehicle crews in field conditions on the weapon system.

Operational history

Libya

In June 2019, United Arab Emirates deployed several of its Pantsir-S1 air defence systems to Libya, to support the Libyan National Army in their advance towards the Tripoli. According to Libyan interior minister Fathi Bashagha, one of the systems was reportedly destroyed by Libyan Air Force strike at an unknown date.

Syria

A Pantsir-S1 unit of the Syrian Armed Forces reportedly scored the first combat kill of the type by downing a Turkish Air Force RF-4E carrying out a reconnaissance flight over the Syrian coast near Latakia on 22 June 2012. The system has also been deployed by the Russian armed forces as part of the intervention in the Syrian Civil War since 2015.

A Russian poster displayed at the International Military Technical Forum «ARMY-2017», from March to July 2017, claimed that the Russia's Pantsir-S systems deployed in Syria destroyed 12 flying objects, including the UAVs Heron, Bayraktar, RQ-21A, and also various missiles and an aerostat. At the beginning of October 2017, it was reported that the Pantsir destroyed two MLRS "Grad" missiles launched by ISIL.

On 27 December 2017, militants fired several missiles from the Bdama inhabited community at Latakia International Airport and the Russian Aerospace Forces deployment site in the Khmeimim Air Base. Two missiles were intercepted by the Pantsir air defense system.

In the night of 5-6 January 2018, the Khmeimim Air Base was attacked by 13 aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Seven drones were eliminated by the Pantsir air defence systems, six landed at assigned coordinates with the use of electronic warfare hardware.

On 14 April 2018, American, British, and French forces launched a barrage of 103 air-to-surface and cruise missiles targeting eight sites in Syria. According to a Russian offcials, twenty-five Pantsir-S1 missiles launched in response destroyed twenty-three incoming missiles, The American Department of Defense stated no allied missiles were shot down.

A Pantsir-S1 system belonging to the Syrian Air Defense Force was destroyed by the Israel Defense Forces during the May 2018 Israel-Syria clashes. According to Russian analysts and military personnel, the system was either turned off or out of ammo at the time of the strike.

On 26 December 2018, a video source showed Syrian air defence systems firing towards the sky. Video sources claimed the system was a Pantsir-S2, but according to a Russian news source, no Pantsir-S2s were delivered to Syria.

On 21 January 2019, an Israeli air force attack destroyed two Pantsir-S1 systems.

Russia's Pantsir and Tor-M1 air defense systems shot down 27 rockets the militants had fired at the Khmeimim Air Base on 6 May 2019.

According to Chief Designer for Air Defense Systems at KBP Instrument Design Bureau Valery Slugin, by January 2020, Pantsir air defence systems intercepted about 100 drones during their operation all over the world. The systems were also successfully used against various ground targets, such as terrorist's jihad mobiles, during their Syrian deployment.

On 28 February 2020 during Turkish strikes against Syria, Turkey claimed it has destroyed a Syrian Pantsir-S1 system by a drone strike, and released a video footage of destruction of the system. The Russian website Avia.pro however said the video is fake and that it was recorded earlier on the territory of Libya, due to the visible design difference between the model of the transport system used by the Syrian Armed Forces and Libyan National Army.

On 4 March 2020 Turkey has destroyed a Pantsir-S1 air defense system with combat drones, subsequent footage showed the destruction of an activated Pantsir-S1 battery.

Ukraine

Various independent experts believe Pantsir-S1 was operated on the separatist side during the War in Donbass. Remnants of its main armament were reported to have been observed in Ukraine in November 2014. It was also reportedly filmed in Lugansk and photographed in Makeevka in the rebel-held territories during early 2015.

The Pantsyr-S air defense missile and gun system has gone on combat duty in the town of Kerch, eastern Crimea, in early September 2018.

Operators:

• Algeria - People's National Army – 104 including Pantsir S1/S2 and SM.
• Ethiopia - Ethiopian National Defense Force - unknown number, first seen in service in March 2019.
• Equatorial Guinea - Armed Forces of Equatorial Guinea - 2 vehicles on order as of August 2017.
• Iran - Army of Iran – Up to 10 vehicles as of 2012.
• Iraq - Iraqi Armed Forces – 42–50 on order. Deal was thought to be cancelled by the Iraqi government due to corruption concerns, but the deal was later confirmed to be going ahead. In September 2014, Iraq received first batch of Pantsir-S1. Russia finished supplying 24 Pantsir-S1 systems to Iraq in February 2016.
• Jordan - Jordanian Armed Forces – According to what Jane's Defence Weekly reported in 2007 a complete Russian Pantsir-S1 short-range air-defence system was being field tested in Jordan and that the kingdom is set to place an order. It was reported that Jordan placed an order for an undisclosed number of systems. Russia Today reported Jordan as being a customer for Pantsir-S1, and that they were likely to purchase between 50–75 combat vehicles.
• Oman - Sultan of Oman's Armed Forces – Up to 12 vehicles as of 2012.
• Russia - Russian Armed Forces – 110 Pantsir-S1 and S2 units in service in November 2017. 24 systems were delivered in 4th quarter of 2017. 6 more in early 2018. 6 Pantsir-S2 units in service in May 2016.
• Serbia - Serbian Armed Forces – one battery ordered in 2018. Contract was finally confirmed in October 2019 during joint Russian-Serbian exercise Slavic Shield 2019. Serbian crews are trained in Russia. President Aleksandar Vučić confirmed that Serbia ordered Pantsir-S1. Delivery started in late February 2020.
• Syria - Syrian Arab Armed Forces – 36 to 50 on order signed in 2006 as part of arms package worth about US$1 billion; deliveries began in August 2007; Jane's Defence Weekly reported in May 2007 that 50 systems are on order by Damascus and that at least ten of those Pantsirs would be handed over to Iran by the end of 2008. According to Jane's Defence Weekly, Iran is reported to be the main sponsor of the deal and is paying Syria for its services as an intermediary. Deliveries to Iran are categorically denied by a range of top Russian officials including First Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov. According to a source in the Russian Ministry of Defence, Russia has supplied Syria with 40 Pantsir-S1 systems. It is operated by the Syrian Air Defense Force.
• United Arab Emirates - Armed Forces of the UAE – 50 on order; Launch customer of Pantsir-S1. Ordered in May 2000, half of them tracked, the other half wheeled. Due to deliver in three batches by the end of 2005–12 in 2003, 24 in 2004 and 14 in 2005. Prices given where US$ 734 million ( including a US$ 100 million pay in advance to complete R&D ), with the price per single unit being about US$15 million. Delivery postponed after new design decisions were taken and UAE is said to have paid additional US$66 Million to cover major improvements. All 50 systems will now be wheeled on MAN SX 45 8x8 trucks from Germany, as well as the support vehicles. Delivery of the prototype occurred in 2007. With that, the MAN SX45 is the only "western" vehicle that can accommodate the S1 system and has a worldwide logistics and support network through its importer network. Delivery of the 50 systems ordered in 2000 began in 2007 with the first two serially produced systems. British Jane's Defence Weekly reported on October 30 delays in further deliveries. Based on test-firing data, some further optimisation of the systems is required. Deliveries will take place over the next three years under an amended schedule. As reported by Kommersant in June 2006 UAE has expressed interest in acquiring an additional 28 systems and has likely signed an option for the delivery in 2009–2010. Russia delivered 50 Pantsyr-S systems in their export configuration and 1,000 missiles to the UAE in 2009-2013. The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE’s) Pantsir-S1 air defence systems are being upgraded, a senior official from Russia’s Rostec defence group told the TASS news agency on 27 November 2019.
• Vietnam - Vietnam People's Armed Forces – Some unconfirmed images cited on Chinese People's Daily have shown a Pantsir-S1 system which has been alleged to be operated by the Vietnamese Army.

Failed bids:

Brazil - Brazilian armed forces – Brazil and Russia were in discussion since early 2013 about Brazil's acquisition of three batteries (one for each Armed Force, 12 launchers) worth 1 billion dollars. In 2015 the acquisition was postponed to 2016, and finally in 2017 Brazil decided to cancel the acquisition. Feeling the Pantsir-S1 won't be really acquired for Brazil, MBDA and Avibras are developing a new missile called AV-MMA (CAMM variant) to be used on a new Astros II MLRS antiaerial version.

CIWS PANTSIR-M FOR  intercept sea skimming missiles 

Pantsir-M is a Russian jamming-resistant naval close-in weapon system (CIWS) which entered service in 2018. Pantsir-M is equipped with friend or foe identification system and armed with naval version of the Pantsir's 57E6 missiles and Hermes-K missiles. Its secondary armament are two six-barreled 30×165mm GSh-6-30K/AO-18KD rotary cannons (range 5 km). Same as on Kashtan-M. Pantsir-M is fully automated and can engage up to four targets simultaneously at a range of up to 20 km and can operate as a battery of up to four modules. Pantsir-M can intercept sea skimming missiles flying as low as two meters above the surface. If a target isn't sufficiently destroyed by Pantsir's missile attack it can automatically direct its cannons against it. Pantsir-M's phased array radar, electro-optical/infrared targeting and identification system are based on that of Pantsir's 1RS2-1.

According to Rostec CEO Sergey Chemezov, Pantsir-M's destructive power is three to four times higher than Kashtan-M's.

Pantsir-M will replace Kashtan-M systems in Russian Navy.

Parameters:

• Range: 20 km
• Altitude: 15 km
• Reaction time: 3–5 s
• Rate of fire: 10000 rounds per minute
• Versions: There are two versions: the Pantsir-M domestic version and the Pantsir-ME export version.
• Users: Russian Federation.

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