Source: ET
Subject: Security
Context: The Ministry of Defence signed a Rs 445 crore contract with Russia’s JSC Rosoboronexport, to procure the Tunguska Air Defence Missile System for the Indian Army.
About Tunguska Air Defence Missile System (2K22M):
What it is?
- The Tunguska (NATO reporting name: SA-19 Grison) is a Soviet-origin, tracked, self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon system. It is a unique hybrid platform that combines both surface-to-air missiles and high-speed anti-aircraft guns on a single chassis to provide comprehensive protection to ground forces.
Developed By:
- Originally developed by the KBP Instrument Design Bureau in the Soviet Union, the system is currently managed and exported by JSC Rosoboronexport, Russia.
Aim:
The system is designed to provide low-altitude air defense for infantry and armored regiments. Its main objective is to protect ground troops on the move against low-flying targets, including:
- Attack helicopters and close-support aircraft.
- Cruise missiles and precision-guided munitions.
- Modern tactical drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
Key Features:
- Dual-Armament Hybrid System: It integrates 9M311 missiles for long-range engagement (up to 8–10 km) and twin 30 mm autocannons for close-in defense, firing up to 5,000 rounds per minute.
- Target Acquisition & Tracking: Equipped with a 360-degree radar capable of detecting threats up to 18 km away, along with a digital fire control system for high precision.
- All-Terrain Mobility: Mounted on a tracked armored chassis, it can keep pace with tanks and infantry fighting vehicles across rugged terrain and in diverse weather conditions.
- Optical Backup: Includes optical tracking capabilities, allowing the system to engage targets even in environments where its radar is being jammed by enemy electronic warfare.
- Engagement Altitude: The missile component can strike targets at altitudes of up to 3,500 meters, filling the gap between man-portable systems and long-range high-altitude batteries.
Significance for India:
- As modern warfare shifts toward drone-heavy tactics, the Tunguska’s rapid-fire guns provide a cost-effective and highly efficient solution to swarm threats.
- It strengthens India’s multi-layered air defense network, acting as a vital shield for mobile army columns that are vulnerable to sudden aerial strikes.
