In a bold assertion of its advanced air defense capabilities, Russia’s state arms export agency, Rosoboronexport, has declared that the BUK-M3 “Viking” system—designated SA-27 Gullum by NATO—is capable of neutralizing some of the most sophisticated aerial threats, including fifth-generation stealth aircraft like the American F-35 Lightning II and F-22 Raptor.
The BUK-M3 represents the latest evolution in the BUK family of surface-to-air missile systems, developed by the Russian defense conglomerate Almaz-Antey. Building upon the legacy of its predecessors, the BUK-M3 introduces significant advancements in radar technology, missile guidance, and electronic warfare resistance. First inducted into the Russian Armed Forces in 2016, the system has since been refined for export, with the “Viking” variant incorporating enhancements tailored for international clients.
The BUK-M3 “Viking” is a medium-range, mobile surface-to-air missile system designed to engage a wide array of aerial targets.
- Missile: 9M317M with active radar homing guidance.
- Engagement Range: Up to 65 kilometers for aerodynamic targets; up to 50 kilometers for tactical ballistic missiles.
- Engagement Altitude: From 10 meters to 25 kilometers.
- Speed: Missiles can reach speeds exceeding Mach 4.
- Launcher Vehicle: 9A317M TELAR, carrying six ready-to-launch missiles.
- Target Engagement: Capable of tracking and engaging up to 36 targets simultaneously.
These capabilities position the BUK-M3 as a formidable component in modern integrated air defense systems, offering protection against a spectrum of threats including aircraft, cruise missiles, tactical ballistic missiles, smart bombs, helicopters, and low-flying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
A standout feature of the BUK-M3 is its claimed ability to detect and engage stealth aircraft, such as the F-35 and F-22. This is achieved through advanced radar systems capable of identifying low radar cross-section targets and missiles designed to resist jamming and electronic countermeasures. The system’s active radar homing guidance allows for precise mid-course corrections and terminal accuracy, even in electronically contested environments.
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The BUK-M3’s mobility allows for rapid deployment and repositioning, providing both static and dynamic defense coverage. Its modular architecture enables integration with other air defense systems, such as the long-range Antey-2500, facilitating the creation of a layered and scalable anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) shield tailored to specific defense needs.
India, with its longstanding military-technical relationship with Russia, has experience with the BUK system, deploying the navalized Shtil-1 variant aboard its warships. The BUK-M3’s blend of range, altitude flexibility, multi-target engagement, and battlefield mobility makes it an attractive option for nations seeking comprehensive air defense solutions.
Despite its advanced capabilities, the BUK-M3 has faced challenges in real-world combat scenarios. For instance, during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, reports have emerged of Ukrainian forces successfully targeting and destroying Russian BUK-M3 systems using drones. Footage released by Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces showed drones pursuing and striking a moving BUK-M3 system, resulting in its destruction. Such incidents highlight the evolving nature of warfare and the continuous need for adaptation in defense technologies.
thesun.co.uk
The BUK-M3 “Viking” represents a significant advancement in medium-range air defense systems, combining mobility, advanced targeting, and integration capabilities. While its performance in combat situations underscores both its strengths and vulnerabilities, the system remains a critical asset in modern air defense strategies, reflecting the dynamic interplay between technological innovation and battlefield realities.
