With the support of surface vessels, one of the Bal coastal defense systems belonging to the Caspian Flotilla of the Russian Navy conducted the launch of a Kh-35 missile. During the exercise, a successful hit was achieved on a naval target simulating an enemy surface unit.
According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, “… The launch of the anti-ship cruise missile against the conventional naval target of the enemy was carried out from a coastal range by personnel of the missile division of the Caspian Flotilla. According to target control data, the missile launch was considered successful…”
The Caspian Flotilla of the Russian Navy comprises smaller units, with two Gepard-class frigates standing out as the largest and most heavily armed vessels. In addition to these assets, the Bal coastal defense system is operated, which provides the capability to engage targets tens or hundreds of kilometers away depending on the missile used.
The Bal system was designed to integrate ground-based defense against the threat of enemy ships, offering protection to naval bases, coastal installations, and critical infrastructure. “…A special feature of the complex is its high mobility, rapid repositioning, and readiness to use its missiles in a short time…” explains TASS in its report.
“The Bal complex is capable of engaging targets at a distance of up to 120 km at any time of day, and in the most adverse weather conditions, the launchers can be positioned hidden up to 10 km from the coast…” Modern versions of the Kh-35 missile reportedly have an increased range of up to 300 kilometers. A few years ago, a new projectile with the ability to engage targets up to 500 kilometers away was also evaluated.
Depending on the variant, a Bal coastal defense system unit can include up to four MZKT-7930 8×8 launcher vehicles, which can be configured with four or eight missile containers. The battery can operate with one or several centralized command and control systems, in addition to utilizing the systems available on the launchers. This allows for decentralization and flexibility, complementing its off-road capability and enhancing survivability.
Several months ago, it was reported that one or more Bal systems were deployed near the border with Ukraine, aiming to reinforce and replace some of the losses suffered in combat.
Cover Image: TASS
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