Russia showed a new weapon. Will the modified "Komar" be the tool of terror?
On October 17-19, the Interpolitex 2023 conference took place in Russia. The new version of the 3M47-03E Komar direct defense missile system was presented there.
Oct 21, 2023 | updated: 4:39 AM EDT, October 23, 2023
The Komar System (also referred to as "Gibka") enables combating airborne attacks. It was originally designed for installation on sea or land platforms where heavier systems could not be mounted. It was introduced into use in 2006 and has been upgraded several times since.
Zbiam.pl reports that the "Mosquitoes" in use are armed with four transport-launch containers grouped into two so-called KAM (Komplekt apparatury uprawlenija i puskowych modulej) Strielec fire modules. The first systems were equipped with short-range anti-aircraft missiles type 9M39 Needle, 9M342 Needle-S and 9M336 Willow (in a ground version known as Gibka-S).
What can the new "Komar" do?
The first serious modifications of the 3M47-03E Komar were introduced back in 2021. Now, the Russians have presented further upcoming changes. The biggest of them will be improved algorithms responsible for detecting and tracking small surface objects. The armament itself will not be changed or modified. The improvements might seem "cosmetic," but they will allow for more effective defense against surface objects moving at speeds up to approximately 31 miles per hour at a distance of up to about 3.7 miles. Defense against aerial objects remains unchanged. Additionally, the new "Komar" will be equipped with an MTK-201M type optoelectronic head.
There is little to suggest that the Russian "Mosquito" has significantly affected the country's defense. But after the recent destruction in their coastal defense systems, Russia may need to examine its direct defense systems with slightly more vigilance.
