In response to relentless aerial assaults from Russian forces, Ukraine has unveiled an innovative mobile air defense system that repurposes existing military assets to address critical defense needs. This new system integrates Soviet-era R-73 air-to-air missiles onto U.S.-supplied HMMWV (High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle) platforms, creating a highly mobile and effective solution against aerial threats such as drones and missiles.
Ukraine’s airspace has been persistently targeted by Russian drones, missiles, and other airborne threats, inflicting significant damage on infrastructure and civilian areas. The limited supply of advanced air defense systems from European allies and the United States has compelled Ukraine to seek alternative solutions to bolster its defensive capabilities. The development of this mobile air defense system underscores Ukraine’s commitment to protecting its airspace through innovative adaptations of available resources.
The R-73, known by its NATO designation AA-11 Archer, is a short-range, infrared-guided missile originally designed for air-to-air combat. Developed in the late 20th century, it has been a staple armament for various Soviet and Russian fighter aircraft, including the MiG-29 and Su-27. The missile measures approximately 2.9 meters in length, with a diameter of 170 mm and a wingspan of 510 millimeters. It weighs around 105 kg and can reach speeds up to Mach 2.5. Its operational range extends up to 30 km, and it is equipped with a high-explosive fragmentation warhead weighing 7.4 kg.
The R-73 uses infrared homing for guidance, with a seeker capable of detecting targets up to 40 degrees off the missile’s centerline. Its thrust-vectoring control system significantly enhances its maneuverability, making it highly effective against agile airborne targets. Additionally, its infrared guidance allows for passive targeting, reducing the chance of detection by enemy radar.