Russia's arena-m tank system counters modern missile threats
The Russian company Rosoboronexport has demonstrated that the Arena-M system can thwart a missile attack from the upper hemisphere. This development signifies a number of things.
Due to the widespread use of anti-tank guided missiles and drones by Ukrainians, Russian forces have suffered substantial tank losses, with nearly 4,000 units confirmed destroyed through photographic evidence. The actual number could be even higher.
In response, Russia has started equipping some newly produced or refurbished tanks with a modified version of the Arena-M active protection system. A recording from a few years ago showcased its ability to intercept a grenade fired directly from an RPG-7. Now, a new video demonstrates its resistance to missiles approaching from the upper hemisphere.
Significant progress by the russians
This development marks a significant stride for the Russians. However, it seems that the interception occurred at an angle less than 60 degrees. It's crucial to note that the FGM-148 Javelin system's missiles can strike a target almost vertically, particularly at shorter ranges, posing a potential challenge for the Arena-M system if this represents its maximum capability. Javelin or Spike manufacturers might adjust their software to enable missiles to descend at steeper angles in response to Arena-M's abilities.
On the positive side, the system will likely be effective against older overfly top attack (OTA) missiles that approach the target directly and detonate above it, such as TOW-2B, RBS-56B BILL 2, or NLAW.
Arena-M system - development of an ambitious idea
The Arena-M active protection system, featured during the Army-2024 expo, is an evolution of the Arena system, which dates back to the 1980s. The Russians were initially pioneers in developing active protection systems.
A notable example is the 1030M Drozd system, developed in the 1970s, seen on the experimental T-80UM2 tank. However, due to the USSR's technological and financial constraints, this idea was left unrealized.
Nonetheless, it inspired Israeli designers to create Rafael's Trophy system, the most effective and widely used active protection system today. Meanwhile, the Arena system in Russia was developed to include a radar and countermeasure launcher.
Arena-M - the new version considers modern threats
The Arena-M upgrade likely modifies the older version. The former system could only detect objects moving above 230 feet per second and ignored overhead threats from missiles like TOW-2B or FGM-148 Javelin. The new iteration shows improvements in this area.
Additionally, the Arena-M system is lighter than its predecessor and may have the capability to intercept FPV drones. However, it is essential for the system to distinguish between threats and benign objects like birds. Drone operators might discover ways to avoid triggering the system, possibly by slowing their approach.
Moreover, Russia faces critical challenges with deploying Arena and similar systems, notably the risk it poses to soldiers nearby. Given the current disregard for troop safety, it remains uncertain whether any precautions have been taken.
