HIMARS strike flattens Russia's $250M "Jastreb-AV" radar system

Another video has recently emerged online, showcasing the first known destruction of Russia's latest reconnaissance system, the 1K148 "Jastreb-AV." Its loss dealt a significant blow to the Russians, as the system played a crucial role in detecting Ukrainian howitzers, mortars, and artillery systems, including the HIMARS. Reports from the Military service confirm that the HIMARS system took down the 1K148 "Jastreb-AV."

The Military service has revealed that the video was shared on social media by the coordinator of the unmanned aerial vehicle training program of the "Return Alive" foundation, who goes by "externalPilot". The footage, from May 2023, marks the first recorded instance of the latest Russian radar system, 1K148 "Jastreb-AV", being destroyed. At the time, it represented one of the costliest losses for Russia, with the price tag of such a system estimated at around $250 million.

While this isn't the first instance of the 1K148 "Jastreb-AV"'s destruction being captured on video, previous footage did not offer the same clarity. The earlier video surfaced at the beginning of 2024.

Insights from the Military suggest that the HIMARS system was likely employed to eliminate the 1K148 "Jastreb-AV" reconnaissance system. This military hardware aimed to counter the very threats posed by the HIMARS. Situated near the city of Yenakiieve in the Donetsk region, the Russian complex became a target after its location was disclosed, leading to HIMARS MLRS rockets being deployed against it.

The HIMARS system launches MLRS cal. 9 inches standard unguided rockets, with a reach ranging from approximately 9 to 43 miles. Additionally, HIMARS can integrate more sophisticated weaponry. It is also configured to launch tactical missiles MGM-140 ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System), a precision strike asset ranging from 16 to 186 miles.

Notably, Ukraine has started to utilize ATACMS missiles in the M39 variant, an older medium-range model capable of striking targets up to roughly 99 miles away. The United States discreetly supplied these missiles to Ukraine towards the end of 2023. However, Kyiv is pursuing ATACMS of an even greater range that would enable strikes on targets within occupied Crimea.