JUSTIFICATION OF MODERNIZATION PATHS FOR SHORT-RANGE AIR DEFENSE MISSILE SYSTEMS OF LAND FORCES

Abstract

Modern air defense systems of large, medium, short, and close range are among the most complex types of military equipment. The ability of a country to independently produce modern air defense systems is an indicator of the level of development of its defense industry. Therefore, the development, serial production, and modernization of these systems require a high level of scientific and technological advancement, as well as significant investment in research and development.
 During the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the russian federation, both manned and unmanned aerial attack means were employed by the air and space forces. From the initial moments of the invasion, all components of the air defense encountered the need for the modernization of the existing air defense systems.
 The need for the modernization of existing air defense systems in Ukraine is justified by a comparative assessment of their tactical and technical characteristics with similar systems provided by Western partner countries within the framework of material and technical assistance. The modernization of air defense missile systems covering mechanized units will enhance the capability to detect and track targets, thereby increasing the effectiveness of the system in modern combat conditions.
 The issue of air defense system modernization has been the subject of numerous publications. These works discuss prospective directions for the development of short-range air defense systems, including the description of new technologies and materials that can be utilized to enhance the functionality and reliability of such systems. The publications focus on various methodological approaches to evaluate options for upgrading weapons and military equipment.