Russian forces deploy Pantsir-S1 systems in Kherson ahead of elections

Russians are preparing to deploy Pantsir-S1 systems for provocations in the occupied territories during elections, according to Defense Express, which cites reports from Ukrainian partisans from the Ates group. We delve into the capabilities of the weapon observed on the streets of Kakhovka.

The Ates partisan movement claims that under the guise of ensuring voter safety, the Russian army is deploying numerous Pantsir-S1 anti-aircraft systems in Kherson oblast, near Kakhovka. Partisans are monitoring Russian movements and providing essential information on the positioning of Russian military equipment, enabling defenders to strike enemy positions strategically. Furthermore, Ates advises residents of occupied areas to avoid polling stations.

It's worth noting that the Pantsir-S1 is a state-of-the-art Russian system, highly regarded globally. For the invading forces, it represents a significant asset, often positioned on elevated structures to enhance low-flying target detection.

This system was incorporated into the Russian military arsenal in the 1990s, with the first prototypes surfacing in 1994. The Pantsir-S1, a ground-based air defence system for short to medium ranges, can be mounted on either wheeled or tracked vehicles, depending on its operational environment. It requires a crew of three but is also equipped with radars and a fire control system, enabling autonomous operation without constant crew management.

The system offers protection against aircraft, helicopters, and precision-guided munitions, which can travel up to about 3281 ft/s. One Pantsir-S1 unit can track up to 12 objects simultaneously, covering a range of up to about 12.4 miles (with a maximum interception altitude of around 9.3 miles). Consequently, it's typically utilized to safeguard key assets.

To counter air threats such as aircraft, missiles, and drones, the Pantsir-S1 employs two automatic anti-aircraft guns, 2A38 calibre 30 mm, with a firing rate of up to 2500 rounds per minute and a range of approximately 2.5 miles. Additionally, it is armed with 12 anti-aircraft missiles, either 67E6 or 57E6E, arranged in two groups of six, allowing it to engage two targets concurrently.