Czech vehicle manufacturer SVOS and Sweden’s Saab Dynamics have completed the joint development of a short-range air defence (MSHORAD) system with firing trials, SVOS and Saab write in press releases.
In the scope of this effort, SVOS transferred the Multi-role ARmoured System (MARS) S-300 protected 4×4 multipurpose vehicle to Saab as a carrier vehicle in the second half of 2021. The vehicle is based on a ladder frame using, to a large extent, NATO-approved components. The two-axle vehicle can carry a total weight of 14 tonnes, including more than two tonnes of payload. The wheels are individually height-adjustable to improve off-road mobility and provide a level platform when required. The crew is protected up to Level 3 against ballistic threats and blasts according to STANG 4569.
The air defence system integrated by Saab features a GIRAFFE 1X multi-purpose 3D radar and triple rocket launcher with RBS 70 NG anti-aircraft missiles. The radar weighs less than 300 kg and can monitor air space up to a range of 75 km. Reportedly, it can also detect and track small and slow-flying objects such as UAVs. The GBAD C2 command and control system can be used to generate the local air picture, assess the threat and assign the weapon.
The mobile fire unit is equipped with three RBS 70 NG. According to Saab, the missiles cannot be jammed and are guided by laser control. With integrated thermal imaging, the system can be used day and night. Weighing around eight kg each, the missiles reach about twice the speed of sound and can be used against targets up to seven km away.
The next stop for the MSHORAD system is Eurosatory in Paris before the new air defence system is demonstrated to potential customers after further firing campaigns.
