TechRussia repurposes Iraq-bound weaponry amid shortages

Russia repurposes Iraq-bound weaponry amid shortages

Pantsir-S1 in Iraqi camouflage on the front in Ukraine.

Images source: © Telegram | Высокоточка

11:02 AM EDT, April 22, 2024

In attempting to overcome equipment shortages, Russians have turned to utilizing units initially produced for foreign customers again. Previously, they tapped into T-90S tanks designated for India, and now they are using Pantsyr-S1 systems intended for Iraq. This article delves into the details of these transactions and the capabilities of these systems.

A video showcasing a Russian boasting about his Pantsyr-S1 anti-aircraft system has emerged on a Russian Telegram account. What stands out is the Pantsyr-S1's unique desert camouflage, which matches that the Iraqi armed forces used.

This incident marks at least the third instance of Russia diverting equipment meant for foreign nations (following artillery shells for Azerbaijan and T-90S tanks destined for India) for its use.

Such practices have significantly undermined Russia's reputation as an arms exporter, already impacted by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This decline is expected to continue.

In 2012, Iraq ordered 48 Pantsyr-S1 units and 36 Mi-28NE helicopters worth $4 billion. However, reports only confirm the delivery of 24 Pantsyr-S1 units, with the helicopter deal not materializing. These very units have now been spotted in Ukraine.

Pantsyr-S1: A prime example of Russian defense exports

The Pantsyr-S1 anti-aircraft system is one of Russia's modern defense achievements, dating back to the 1990s. At that time, Russians faced significant financial difficulties and sought a cost-effective alternative to the 2K22 Tunguska systems. Mounting the fire module on a standard KamAZ truck was the optimal solution.

Progress on the project was slow and nearly faced cancellation until the United Arab Emirates (UAE) showed interest. This external financial support enabled the project's completion. Remarkably, the UAE became the first recipient of the Pantsyr-S1 systems, opting for variants mounted on German-manufactured trucks, while Russia introduced its version into service only in 2012.

At the core of the Pantsyr-S1 is an armament module featuring two automatic 30mm 2A38M cannons. These cannons, capable of firing up to 2500 rounds per minute each, can effectively engage targets within a range of up to 2.5 miles using various types of ammunition.

Additionally, the system boasts an anti-aircraft missile launcher with 12 57E6 or 57E6-E missiles arranged in two sections of six. This setup enables the engagement of multiple targets simultaneously. The missiles, which have a range of up to 12.43 miles, rely on radio command guidance, making them dependent on the launcher until they reach their target.

A radar or an optoelectronic head equipped with a thermal imaging camera enhances the system's detection capabilities, allowing it to identify targets up to 18.64 miles away. However, it's important to note that the system's effectiveness varies; certain targets, such as Polish Warmate drones or the Anglo-French Storm Shadow cruise missiles, have proven challenging for the Pantsyr-S1 to counter.