Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1446249
ew project. Given the number of systems here, it is easy to imagine a situation in which some of the batteries or fire units are used to protect the elements of crit- ical infrastructure. Noteworthy, modern SHORAD systems come in a form of ad- vanced, multi-channel solutions, with the effectors coming in a form of missiles with a range of several kilometers, usu- ally using active RF or passive IR seeker units. A single missile could cost more than 1 million dollars. This means that the cost-effect ratio here would rather push the user to employ such effectors against the most advanced/dangerous targets. VSHORAD is the lowest layer of the IADS. These assets come in a form of SAM, AAA, and laser air defense systems. The basic purpose of this layer is to provide direct defense capability for the elements of the land forces. Thus, VSHORAD sys- tems are highly mobile, and all elements of the given solution (effectors, sensors, operator's cabin) usually utilize a single carrier platform. At the same time, one needs to note that the VSHORAD sys- tems, as they accompany the protected elements, have a limited range of a cou- ple, or up to several kilometers. Poprad VSHORAD is the most modern example of systems as such, operated by the Polish Armed Forces. Poprad utilizes a wheeled Żubr platform carrying an electro-optical sensor and four Grom missiles. In the fu- ture, the Polish VSHORAD inventory may also include the Sona AAA system, utiliz- ing 35 mm KDA cannons, firing airburst [programmable] munitions. Both systems listed above would also, most probably, be used for immediate protection of the critical infrastructure, especially during a crisis. 35 mm KDA AAA batteries, or laser systems, should be introduced as complementary assets here. Whereas, in the beginning, one should focus on the acquisition of lasers with a power output of 5 to 10 kW, capable of effectively de- stroying, or at least - neutralizing small UAVs. Then incremental power output in- crease shall happen in the case of the la- ser assets, including systems that would be able to neutralize cruise missiles, or even manned aircraft. www.fragoutmag.com