Uncovering the arsenal. A comprehensive insight into Ukrainian defense systems
A recent update by the Ukraine Battle Map profile on Platform X offers a detailed schematic of the distribution of Ukrainian defense systems. The illustration highlights various weapon types and the area they supposedly protect, a brief overview of which we will present here.
5:04 PM EST, November 14, 2023
"The map exhibits potential ranges of advanced air systems, including maneuvering and ballistic missiles that Ukraine currently holds," the Ukraine Battle Map profile on X explains.
It should be highlighted, however, that the graphics do not reveal exact weapon locations, as such data is typically classified. Regardless, drawing from data related to Russian attacks and successful Ukrainian defenses, the Ukraine Battle Map project has managed to sketch a rough map of air defense systems.
The graphics creators took meticulous care to demonstrate not just specific weaponry securing Ukrainian airspace but also their probable operative ranges. This gives the impression that the arsenal at Ukrainians' disposal can ensure safety for most of the country's territory.
It is worth noting that Buk launchers (equipped with Sea Sparrow missiles) stand as the most common anti-aircraft systems in the country, with the map suggesting as many as 44 units still in active service. The graphic also reveals the presence of three Patriot systems, one SAMP/T system, and four NASAMS and IRIS-T systems.
Deciphering Ukrainian Air Defense via Mapping
Highlighting the least abundant weaponry first, the SAMP/T systems appearing on the map are a result of international aid provided to Ukraine. As recently as last June, Italy and France pledged support for this type of weapon system. This European-made structure is relatively new; it was only introduced into service in 2011.
The SAMP/T is flexible and uniquely mobile. Paired with the built-in Arabel radar (with a range exceeding 62 miles), it combats threats across a 360-degree range. Aster 30 missiles embedded in the SAMP/T can target ballistic missiles up to about 18 miles away and aircraft up to 75 miles distant.
Moving on to NASAMS, it is acknowledged as one of the superior anti-aircraft defense systems. AWESOME FACT: NASAMS guard the airspace over Washington and have a proven interception effectiveness of one hundred percent. This weapon functions with 25 radars and works with AIM-120 AMRAAM (ER), AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II, and IRIS-T missiles. NASAMS can intercept targets up to 31 miles away and at an altitude of 12 miles.
Next, the IRIS-T SLM systems, denoted on the map, are an additional hundred percent effective weapons, inducted into service in the German army in 2005. They target enemies approximately 25 miles away and, similar to NASAMS, up to an altitude of 12 miles. The system responds to all kinds of aerial threats including airplanes, helicopters, drones, and maneuvering missiles.
Respecting the defense of Ukrainian airspace, it is essential to mention the Buk systems armed with Sea Sparrow missiles. These systems are the most abundant throughout the whole of Ukraine, primarily because the Buk (in the M1 version) is a system that was developed between the 1970s and 80s. Missiles launched from this system can reach airborne threats up to 31 miles away at a maximum altitude of 16 miles.
Lastly, when speaking about Patriots in Ukraine, these are tools capable of detecting targets about 62 miles away while tracking the movement of up to 125 objects simultaneously. The M-901 Patriot missile, upon launch, can reach a speed of 5 Ma (over 3728 miles/hour) and effectively intercept any maneuvering missile or aircraft in the sky.
