Radar complex for reconnaissance and fire control "Zoo. Tests of the reconnaissance and fire system "Strelets" completed Production and supply of systems

Nikolay ZAYTSEV

To ensure parity with a potential adversary in the field of radar reconnaissance of ground targets, the open joint-stock company Strela Research and Production Association, Tula (part of the Almaz-Antey Air Defense Concern), according to the tactical and technical assignments of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation, over 60 different stations and complexes have been developed and put into service.

Recently, the enterprise has developed and mastered in mass production a number of artillery reconnaissance radars that meet the latest requirements: the 1L260 long-range artillery reconnaissance radar complex, the 1L271 multifunctional portable radar for reconnaissance of mortar firing positions and mobile ground targets, and the product 1L277 portable reconnaissance radar for ground targets and portable ground reconnaissance radar SBR-5M.

SCOUTING FIRING POSITIONS BY SHOT

An artillery radar complex for reconnaissance of missile positions and artillery 1L260. The 1L260 radar complex includes:

- a three-coordinate monopulse radar station with a phased antenna array (product 1L261);

- maintenance vehicle (product 1I38);

– power plant ED60-T230P-1RAM4.

The combat missions solved by the complex, operating modes and tactical and technical characteristics of the complex are determined by the 1L261 product (Fig. 1).

The launch of the complex into production not only solved the problem of our country's lagging behind in the range of reconnaissance of firing artillery and missiles, but also ensured superiority in this area. In conditions of passive and active interference, the complex, along with reconnaissance of enemy firing positions, simultaneously monitors the firing of its own weapons and monitors space in order to detect anti-radar missiles.

A comparative analysis of the characteristics shows that the 1L260 complex is superior to the foreign ROP "Cobra" and AN / TPQ-53 radars both in terms of reconnaissance range and in a number of basic technical characteristics.

The complex provides:

- detection and tracking of flying artillery shells, MLRS rockets, tactical missiles;

- determination with high accuracy of the coordinates of the points of departure and fall of shells (mines, missiles);

- recognition of the class, including the caliber of the firing firing position of the enemy;

– simultaneous operation in reconnaissance and control modes;

– operation under the influence of natural passive interference;

– direction finding of sources of active interference and automatic compensation of interference from several directions;

- detection of anti-radar missiles;

- continuous automatic diagnostics of the components of the product in the course of combat work.

In the "Reconnaissance" mode (Fig. 2), the complex provides opening of the enemy's firing positions, in the "Maintenance" mode (Fig. 3), the coordinates of the points of impact of shells of its firing means are determined.

Special software made it possible to implement a fully automatic mode of operation of the complex, without the participation of crew members.

The use of software-controlled units of radar equipment provided flexible changes in operating modes and the possibility of further modernization of the product, while the number of simultaneously tracked targets can vary from 12 to 36.

The hardware capabilities of the radar make it possible not only to provide reconnaissance of firing positions of various types of firing systems, but also to implement a space surveillance mode in the interests of air defense.

Along with the radar for reconnaissance of long-range artillery firing positions, there is a need for light portable radars that provide reconnaissance of firing positions of firing mortars, reconnaissance of ground moving targets and control of the firing of their own artillery on exploding shells (mines) for the battalion level. This is confirmed by the experience of conducting local wars and counter-terrorist operations.

At the end of 2012, the world's first portable multifunctional reconnaissance radar for firing positions of firing mortars and ground moving targets 1L271 was adopted by the Russian army (Fig. 4).

The radar determines the location of the firing mortar firing point or the point of impact of the mine by radar observation of the mine in the visible section of the flight path, measuring the coordinates and parameters of its movement at individual points of the trajectory, followed by extrapolation to the point of departure or fall (Fig. 5). The radar antenna is electronically scanned in azimuth. The movement of the beam in elevation is carried out by changing the polarization of microwave radiation.

The station is made in the form of a set of equipment placed in the inner compartment of a special partially armored vehicle, which serves for the prompt delivery of a crew of three people and station equipment to a given area of ​​work. Redeployment over short distances in a given area of ​​work to select a more convenient combat position is carried out by carrying the components of the station removed from the vehicle using special carrying packages.

PORTABLE SHORT AND NEAR RANGE RADAR

The first in Russia serially mastered portable radar for reconnaissance of ground targets of short range with a phased antenna array (PAR) - station 1L277 (Fig. 6). It is designed to detect moving single and group ground, surface, stationary ground and surface targets, as well as to correct artillery and mortar fire at gaps. The station also detects low-flying unmanned aerial vehicles.

Unlike its prototype (PSNR-8 station), 1L277 allows, along with moving targets and artillery shell explosions, to detect stationary small targets, which is the first time this has been done in a radar of this class. At the same time, a reduction in radar visibility and an increase in noise immunity were provided. The use of a solid-state component base made it possible to reduce the weight by 2 times and increase the mean time between failures by 3.7 times compared to PSNR-8.

The design of the station allows its installation on various running bases, and the principle of monoblock execution of radar equipment makes it possible to create stationary surveillance systems, their interaction in a network while protecting borders, coastal zones, military and civilian facilities.

Compared with stations of the same class PSNR-8 and PSNR-8M, which are in service, and foreign counterparts, the 1L277 radar has several important advantages. In particular, automatic tracking of up to 20 targets is provided without stopping reconnaissance in a given sector; detection mode and determination of the coordinates of fixed targets; automatic recognition of the type of moving targets "man - technology".

To ensure the secrecy and noise immunity of the operation of the station, a frequency agility mode (BFC) has been implemented, which makes it difficult for the enemy to conduct electronic intelligence and makes it impossible to set up targeted active interference.

A qualitative leap in the development of portable radars for reconnaissance of ground moving targets was made with the creation in 2010 of the portable short-range reconnaissance radar SBR-5M (Fig. 7), which combines almost all the capabilities of modern radars, despite the extremely small overall and weight characteristics.

The radar is a coherent, multi-channel radar station with a continuous emission of a low power broadband chirp signal.

It has the ability to interface with five types of easel automatic small arms (PKMSN, Pecheneg, Kord, AGS-17, AGS-30), (Fig. 8), which makes it indispensable when conducting combat operations in conditions of lack of optical visibility .

The principle of operation and combat use of the station consists in scanning one of the given sectors with automatic detection of moving targets, determining their polar coordinates for aiming automatic small arms and displaying the target radar situation against the background of an electronic terrain map (ECM).

The station provides high secrecy of operation from enemy electronic countermeasures, since its radiated power is less than that of a cell phone. All radio-electronic devices, primary processing units and VTS are placed in the transceiver, which, together with the drive, is mounted on a tripod. The control panel with a rechargeable battery is located at a distance from the transceiver.

Unique design and technological solutions made it possible to create a station with the minimum weight of a wearable set for all analogs, not exceeding 12 kg.

As an autonomous reconnaissance vehicle, the SBR-5M station is included in:

- complex intelligence, control and communications "Sagittarius" (83T215-8VR);

- automated ATGM battery control complex ("Commander-E");

- an airborne automated command reconnaissance combat vehicle (BMD-3K-AR).

The station's transceiver is included in the combat anti-sabotage vehicle (BPDM "Typhoon-M").

Serial production of 1L260, 1L271, 1L277 and SBR-5M products made it possible to start equipping the artillery and military intelligence units of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation with high-performance ground reconnaissance radars, which in terms of technical level correspond to the best foreign models, and in some characteristics even surpass them. This made it possible to raise the effectiveness of radar reconnaissance to a new qualitative level - to more effectively solve traditional tasks, expand the list of tasks to be solved and significantly increase operational capabilities to improve the stealth, noise immunity and survivability of stations on the battlefield.

The Tipchak aerial reconnaissance complex was developed by Luch Design Bureau in the city of Rybinsk. Work on its creation began in the late 80s. In late 2006 - early 2007, the complex successfully passed the first stage of state tests. The Tipchak aerial reconnaissance complex with UAV-05 (formerly 9M62) is designed to detect various objects from the air, identify them, determine and transmit their location coordinates in real time to consumers at any time of the day at a distance of up to 40 km from the ground control point . If necessary, it can be replaced by equipment for electronic or chemical reconnaissance, relaying and other purposes.

The complex ensures high accuracy of the UAV following the route and the ability to install various payloads on it, use the device autonomously (according to the program) and in direct radio control mode. Reconnaissance of ground objects can be carried out simultaneously by two aircraft. The range of the complex is determined by the range of the radio link and can be increased by installing a new one with enhanced capabilities.

The Tipchak complex includes 4 vehicles and up to 6 UAV-05:

- Unmanned aerial vehicle BLA-05 "Tipchak" is designed to transport reconnaissance and transceiver equipment in order to receive and transmit real-time image information to the ground control point both during autonomous (according to the program) and radio command flight along a given route. High manufacturability ensures quick assembly of a UAV stored disassembled and its preparation (no more than 15 minutes) for flight immediately before its use. A piston engine is used as a propulsion system in a remotely piloted reusable aircraft.

- The antenna machine is used to transmit control commands simultaneously to two UAVs, determine their coordinates using the radar method, receive telemetry, navigation and visual information. It houses equipment for controlling two UAVs and a 12-meter antenna-mast device that provides reliable control and information exchange with low-flying UAVs. Power is supplied from a three-phase AC network 380/22 V (50 Hz) or from built-in diesel generators.

- The operator's machine is designed to control the complex and provides registration, processing and display of telemetric and visual information, its correction, linking to a digital map of the area, determining reconnaissance objects and their coordinates, as well as interacting with the authorities and consumers of reconnaissance information.
The issuance of a formalized report after the end of reconnaissance does not exceed 30 s.

- The transport and launch vehicle (TPM) is designed for storage and transportation of 6 containers with UAVs, their preparation and launch using a pneumatic catapult. When preparing the UAV for launch, the machine takes a position. Simultaneously with the assembly of the aircraft, the pneumatic system is also being prepared, with the help of which, after the installation of the UAV on the catapult, it is launched.
The machine is a wheeled chassis based on the KamAZ vehicle with a platform with an ejection device, a control panel, six containers for UAVs, a diesel generating set and performance monitoring equipment placed on it.
The TPM catapult ensures the takeoff of an UAV weighing up to 70 kg with an acceleration of up to 12 units at the moment of separation. The time of deployment and collapse of the machine does not exceed 20 minutes, the power consumption is 14 kW. The stock of fuel and lubricants for the UAV engine provides at least 30 launches.

- The technical support vehicle is used to carry out routine maintenance with the UAV, search for and select landed aircraft, their minor repairs if necessary, monitor the UAV's performance and deliver it to the TPM for reuse, as well as transport the stock of consumables and spare parts.

The existing configuration of the complex provides ease of use and meets the requirements of the customer. If necessary, taking into account the weight and size indicators of the equipment, the complex can be placed on the same vehicle with a trailer and delivered in a reduced configuration. In this case, the total cost of the complex is reduced, its mobility is increased, but the working conditions of operators are significantly worsened.

In 2007, the BLA-05 as part of the complex successfully passed state and military tests and is in trial operation. The complex can significantly increase the efficiency of barrel and rocket artillery. This is ensured by providing detailed reconnaissance information about the terrain and enemy targets, conducting reconnaissance in the depths of the combat area with minimal risk to personnel, reducing the consumption of ammunition when delivering strikes, and improving the quality and efficiency of the exchange of information between units when interacting with command and control agencies.

The main advantages of the complex are considered to be the presence of a digital noise-resistant radio link for controlling and transmitting broadband information, a reliable flight and navigation complex, a small-sized high-resolution optoelectronic system, an information and software complex for automated processing of intelligence information in real time and a modern element base.

According to the Luch Design Bureau, a phased modernization of the Tipchak complex is currently underway in order to increase its main tactical and technical characteristics - a range of up to 100:120 km, a UAV flight time of up to 6:8 an hour, as well as in the direction of reducing the number escort vehicles and cost reduction. The Tipchak complex is considered in the future as a base for further development - using its unified elements and technologies, it is planned to create a number of new complexes with UAVs for various purposes of short and medium range, which are essential for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, as well as to provide power structures and industrial structures.

So, recently, in addition to the ground version, a marine (coastal) version of the operation of the Tipchak complex was created, which provides a full cycle of reconnaissance and observation of the sea surface in given coordinates at any time of the day with the simultaneous use of two UAVs. The complex ensures the receipt and processing of view information in real time, the issuance of information on the results of observation to the control point.

To expand the range of UAVs, the capabilities and scope of the complex, in 2005 work began on the creation of two more aircraft - BLA-07 and BLA-08:

- the BLA-07 device, a small-sized tactical reusable UAV with a piston engine, was created to provide reconnaissance of marine targets. It is a 35-kilogram drone with a payload that includes a combined TV/IR camera and a high-definition digital camera.

- the BLA-08 apparatus of a normal aircraft scheme with a reverse V-tail (90 kg, low speed with a long flight time), is the largest and most functional of the entire Tipchak line. Its payload may include a digital two-spectrum camera, a gyro-stabilized optical-electronic system, a side-looking radar, relay equipment, electronic intelligence, electronic warfare and radiation-chemical intelligence.

Modification: BLA-05 / BLA-07 / BLA-08
Wingspan, m: 3.40 / 2.40 / 4.1
Length, m: 2.40 / 1.65 / 2.7
Weight, kg
-empty:-
-Max. takeoff: 70 / 35 / 90
Engine type: 1 x PD
- power, hp: 1 x
Start: ejection / ejection / ejection or runway
Landing: parachute / parachute / parachute or runway
Flight speed range, km/h: 90-190 / 120-190 / 80-180
Range, km: 70 / 30-50 / 120
Flight duration, h: 2 / 3 / 8
Static ceiling, m: 3000 / 3000 / 4500

The prototype of the BLA-05 "Timchak".

Installation of the BLA-05 "Timchak" on the lift of the transport and launch vehicle.

BLA-05 "Timchak" on the transport-launcher.

BLA-05 "Timchak" on the transport-launcher.

BLA-05 "Timchak" on the transport-launcher.

BLA-05 "Timchak" in the transport position.

BLA-05 "Timchak" in the stowed position on the TPM.

The prototype of the UAV-07 complex "Timchak".

UAV-07 complex "Timchak".

BLA-08 on the TPM of the Timchak complex. MAKS-2009, photo by Dmitry Derevyankin.

BLA-08 on the TPM of the Timchak complex. MAKS-2009, photo by Dmitry Derevyankin.

Scheme of interaction of the complex "Tipchak".

.
List of sources:
Site of JSC "Concern of Radio Engineering" VEGA ". Complex with UAV "Tipchak".
Site "Missiles.ru". Rybinsk Design Bureau "Luch" shows at MAKS-2005 a serial reconnaissance complex with RPV "Tipchak".
Site "Missiles.ru". "Tipchak" is being modernized.

The ground forces of the modern army need a large number of special equipment and electronic equipment. In particular, artillery needs radar reconnaissance systems capable of monitoring the specified territory and monitoring the results of firing. Currently, the main domestic means of this class are complexes of the Zoo family.

Complex 1L219 "Zoo"

The development of the radar artillery reconnaissance complex 1L219 "Zoo" began in accordance with the decree of the USSR Council of Ministers of July 5, 1981. The new radar was intended to replace existing types of equipment, primarily the 1RL239 Rys complex, which was actively used by the troops. The Strela Scientific Research Institute (Tula) was appointed the lead developer of the project, V.I. Simachev. Several other organizations were also involved in the work. For example, NPP "Istok" (Fryazino) was responsible for the development of microwave equipment, and the Tula plant "Arsenal" was supposed to build prototypes of the finished complex.

It should be noted that one resolution of the Council of Ministers required the creation of two artillery reconnaissance complexes at once. The Zoo-1 and Zoo-2 systems were supposed to have different characteristics and differ in some components. This implied the maximum possible unification of the two types of equipment.

Self-propelled radar 1L219 "Zoo-1"

The development of a new project at a certain stage encountered some difficulties, which led to a shift in the timing of the implementation of different stages. So, the draft version of the project 1L219 "Zoo" was completed in two years: it was ready in 1983. The following year, a technical version of the project was prepared. In 1986, the organizations involved in the project completed all the work on the preparation of design documentation, but the start of construction of experimental reconnaissance complexes was postponed due to changed customer requirements.

On June 19, 1986, the Council of Ministers issued a new resolution that determined the further development of radar reconnaissance systems for artillery. The military wanted to get not only a self-propelled vehicle with a set of electronic equipment, but also a number of other means. In accordance with the new decree, it was required to develop a new set of tools, which was supposed to include the Zoo machine. Due to changes in customer requirements, the project developers had to re-develop some elements of the complex. A part of the radio-electronic equipment, including the means of detecting targets, has undergone alteration.

Due to numerous improvements, the construction of the Zoo experimental machine was delayed. It was released for preliminary tests only in 1988. This stage of testing, accompanied by various improvements, continued until the spring of 1990, when several prototypes were presented for state testing. During the year, the equipment was tested in the ground forces of several military districts. During these events, all the necessary information about the operation of the complex in the conditions of combat units was collected.

During all the tests, the design characteristics of the complex were confirmed and advantages over the existing Lynx system were revealed. In particular, the range was increased by 10%, the field of view doubled, and the throughput of automation - 10 times. According to the results of state tests, the 1L219 Zoopark-1 radar artillery reconnaissance complex was put into service. The corresponding command order was signed on April 18, 1992.

The reconnaissance complex "Zoo-1" was intended to monitor the indicated areas, track enemy artillery and control the results of firing their batteries. In order to ensure the possibility of combat work at the same positions with artillery, all the equipment of the complex was mounted on a self-propelled chassis. The MT-LBu universal tractor was chosen as the basis for the complex. With a combat vehicle weight of about 16.1 tons, a maximum speed of 60-62 km / h is provided. Management of all means of the complex is carried out by the calculation of three people.

On the roof of the base chassis, an antenna post is mounted, made in the form of a turntable with a phased antenna array installed on it. In the stowed position, the antenna is lowered to a horizontal position, and the entire post rotates along the body of the machine. The antenna array is part of a three-coordinate radar station and allows you to monitor a sector up to 60 ° wide in azimuth. The field of view in elevation is about 40°. The ability to rotate the antenna post allows you to change the observation sector without moving the entire machine.

The radar of the 1L219 complex operates in the centimeter range and is controlled by on-board digital computers of the Elektronika-81B and Saiver-2 types. All operations for tracking the specified sector, detecting targets and issuing processed information are performed automatically. The calculation of the complex has the ability to monitor the systems and, if necessary, intervene in their work. To display information about the situation at the workplaces of the commander and operator, black-and-white screens on a CRT are provided.

Scheme of the system 1L219

The main task of the reconnaissance complex 1L219 "Zoo-1" was to detect the positions of enemy missile forces and artillery, as well as to calculate the trajectories of projectiles. In addition, it was possible to control the firing of their artillery. The main method for determining coordinates and trajectories was tracking small-sized high-speed ballistic targets - projectiles. The station was supposed to automatically monitor the shells, calculate their trajectories and determine the location of guns or launchers.

The automation of the Zoo-1 complex is capable of detecting at least 10 enemy firing positions per minute. At the same time, tracking of no more than 4 targets is provided. The probability of determining the position of the gun on the first shot was determined at the level of 80%.

In the course of combat work, the complex had to determine the current parameters of a flying projectile, as well as calculate its full trajectory along a known area. After that, the automation gave out information about the place where the projectile was launched to the command post. Further, this information should have been transferred to artillery for a retaliatory strike on the enemy’s firing position in order to destroy his equipment and weapons. To determine its own position, used in determining the coordinates of targets, the system of topographic and geodetic reference 1T130M "Mayak-2" is used.

Serial production of self-propelled radar artillery reconnaissance systems 1L219 "Zoo-1" was entrusted to the company "Vector" (Yekaterinburg). Initially, it was assumed that the 1L219 complexes would be used in the missile forces and artillery at the regimental level. Each regiment and brigade had to have its own systems of this type, designed to track enemy artillery and provide coordinates for counter-battery combat.

However, the collapse of the Soviet Union did not allow to fully and quickly implement all the existing plans. The serial construction of the Zoo-1 machines was carried out at a relatively slow pace, but in recent years the ground forces managed to get a certain amount of such equipment. All stations 1L219 are used in the control system of artillery formations and successfully solve the tasks assigned to them.

Complex 1L220 "Zoo-2"

By a decree of the Council of Ministers of July 5, 1981, it was required to develop two radar reconnaissance systems at once. The first, 1L219, was created by the Tula Research Institute "Strela" in cooperation with some other enterprises. The development of the second complex with the designation 1L220 was entrusted to NPO Iskra (Zaporozhye). The objective of the second project was to create another reconnaissance complex with an increased detection range. Otherwise, the goals and objectives of the projects were the same.

Within the framework of the Zoo-2 project, a complex of radio-electronic equipment was developed, suitable for mounting on various chassis. It was planned to offer the customer two modifications of the reconnaissance system at once, mounted on different chassis. There was a project for a vehicle based on the GM-5951 tracked chassis and the KrAZ-63221 wheeled chassis. The wheel complex received its own designation 1L220U-KS. In the case of a tracked chassis, the electronic equipment was located inside a lightly armored hull, on the roof of which a rotary antenna post was installed. The wheeled vehicle project involved the use of a van body with appropriate equipment.

Complex 1L220 "Zoo-2" on a tracked chassis

According to the general architecture, the "Zaporozhye" version of the complex resembled a machine developed by Tula specialists. It was proposed to equip the 1L220 complex with a radar station with a phased antenna array mounted on a swivel base. Working in the centimeter range, the station was supposed to detect flying artillery shells.

The electronics of the Zoo-2 complex made it possible to automatically monitor the situation, search for targets and determine their trajectories, while simultaneously calculating the location of enemy guns.

After the collapse of the USSR, the enterprises involved in the Zoo program remained in different countries, which led to a serious difficulty in work. Despite all the problems, NPO Iskra continued work and completed the creation of a new artillery reconnaissance complex. Due to some problems, it was necessary to carry out additional revision of the project. The updated version of the project received the designation 1L220U.

Due to the economic problems of the country, the need to finalize the project, etc. testing of the prototype system "Zoo-2" began only in the late nineties. According to the test results, the system was adopted by the Ukrainian army in 2003. Subsequently, Ukrainian enterprises, in cooperation with foreign organizations, built a certain amount of such equipment, which was supplied to the armed forces.

According to reports, due to improvements in electronic equipment, it was possible to significantly improve the characteristics of the 1L220U complex in comparison with the Tula 1L219. The Ukrainian-designed machine station is capable of tracking a sector 60° wide in azimuth. The radar can detect operational-tactical missiles at ranges up to 80 km. When using multiple launch rocket systems by the enemy, the maximum detection range, depending on the type of missiles, is 50 km. Mortar mines of caliber up to 120 mm are detected by the station at ranges up to 30 km. Declared the possibility of detecting up to 50 enemy firing positions per minute.

Complex 1L219M "Zoo-1"

In the early nineties, the Strela Research Institute began developing a modernized version of the Zoo-1 complex. The updated version of the complex received the index 1L219M. In some sources, various additional designations of this complex are found, in particular, the name "Zoo-1M" ​​sometimes appears. However, such a "name" was later assigned to another complex of the family.

Machine 1L219M "Zoo-1"

The aim of the 1L219M project was to replace obsolete equipment with new equipment with improved performance. For example, the CBVM was replaced. In the updated complex, computer equipment of the Baguette family is used to control the operation of automation. In addition, a new topographic and geodetic reference system was used in the modernization project. To accurately determine its own coordinates, the upgraded Zoo-1 vehicle received a 1T215M topographic positioner and a GLONASS receiver.

According to the developer, in the 1L219M project, it was possible to significantly improve the characteristics of the radar station. Thus, the detection range of operational-tactical missiles was increased to 45 km. The maximum detection range of rockets has increased to 20 km. When using mortars of 81-120 mm caliber by the enemy, it is possible to determine the firing position at ranges up to 20-22 km.

The automation of the 1L219M complex is capable of processing up to 70 targets per minute. Up to 12 objects are tracked simultaneously. It takes no more than 15-20 seconds to automatically calculate the full trajectory of enemy ammunition with the determination of the launch point and the point of impact.

In addition to the radar equipment, the calculation workplaces have undergone modernization. The main innovation was the use of color monitors, which display all information about the situation in the station's sector of responsibility. All data on the found firing positions of the enemy are automatically transmitted to the command post and can then be used to deliver a retaliatory strike.

The development of the project 1L219M "Zoo-1" was completed in the mid-nineties. Shortly thereafter, testing of the prototype began. According to some sources, during the tests, numerous shortcomings were identified, primarily related to the reliability of various units. As a result, it was decided to modify the system in order to improve the characteristics that do not meet the requirements.

Machine 1L219M "Zoo-1"

Accurate information about the production and operation of the 1L219M complexes is not available. Some sources mention the construction of such equipment and even its use in some recent conflicts. However, there is no complete evidence for this. It was probably decided not to start mass production of new equipment due to the lack of serious advantages over the existing one, and also because of the difficult economic situation of the armed forces. Nevertheless, the updated version of the Zoo-1 complex was demonstrated at various exhibitions.

Complex 1L260 "Zoo-1M"

The latest at the moment artillery reconnaissance complex of the Zoo family is a system with the index 1L260, created in the 2000s. After the not-too-successful project 1L219M, the Tula Research Institute "Strela" continued to work on the creation of new radar stations for the ground forces. To date, the Strela enterprise has received the status of a research and production association and has become part of the Almaz-Antey air defense concern.

Self-propelled radar 1L261 "Zoo-1M"

Complex "Zoo-1M", despite the name, is not a modernized version of existing equipment, but a completely new development. For example, the new complex incorporates several components at once, performing various functions. The main element of the complex is a self-propelled radar station 1L261 on a tracked chassis. In addition, a 1I38 maintenance vehicle and a backup power plant are involved in combat work. Auxiliary elements of the complex are mounted on automobile chassis. According to some reports, if necessary, a self-propelled radar can perform assigned tasks independently and without the help of additional elements of the complex.

Self-propelled radar 1L261 differs from its predecessors in a different layout of the main units. As before, all units of the machine are mounted on a tracked chassis, which is used as the machine GM-5955. An antenna post with lifting and rotation mechanisms is mounted on the roof of the housing. In the stowed position, the phased antenna array is placed on the middle and aft parts of the hull cover. The combat weight of the vehicle exceeds 38 tons. The operation of all systems is controlled by a calculation of three people.

During the preparation of the complex for operation, the antenna rises and can rotate around the vertical axis, changing the field of view. The design of the phased antenna array allows the calculation of the station to follow objects located in a sector with a width of 90 ° in azimuth. The exact characteristics of the target detection range have not yet been announced. According to previously published data, the 1L261 station is capable of determining the firing position of enemy artillery with an error of up to 40 m. When calculating the launch point for multiple rocket launchers, the error is 55 m, and the launch point for ballistic missiles is 90 m.

The full composition of the complex 1L260 "Zoo-1M"

Accurate information about the current state of the project 1L260 "Zoo-1M" ​​is not available. According to some reports, a few years ago, the Russian Ministry of Defense ordered a number of such complexes, but the details of the contract were not disclosed. In addition, in 2013 one of the stages of testing the complex could be carried out. Official information about the Zoo-1M complex and its prospects has not yet been published.

Reconnaissance and fire system "Sagittarius" / Photo: topwar.ru

The reconnaissance units of the troops of the Central Military District (CMD) have completed tests of the new reconnaissance and fire system "Sagittarius", which gives out the coordinates of targets detected by reconnaissance bombers, the press service of the CMD said on Friday.

"In the Central Military District at the Chebarkul training ground (Chelyabinsk region), tests of a new reconnaissance and fire system were completed, in which for the first time the use of bomber aircraft and the Strelets reconnaissance, control and communications systems was completed," the Central Military District reports.

The reconnaissance units, using the "Sagittarius" system, gave out the coordinates of the detected targets to the crews of a pair of Su-24M bombers loitering in the airspace of the training ground, after which the aircraft launched a bombing and assault strike. "Targets, including moving ones, were hit by 250-kg high-explosive fragmentation bombs. The time to hit objects from the moment they were discovered did not exceed two minutes," the district said in a statement.

Also, the interaction of "Strelets" with other fire weapons was worked out - multiple rocket launchers "Hurricane", 152-mm self-propelled howitzers "Msta-S", mortars and anti-tank guided missiles. Photographs with the coordinates of the target came from observation posts equipped with "Sagittarius" to command and observation posts, where a decision on fire damage was made using automated control systems, writes RIA Novosti.

"Thanks to the experiment, the reconnaissance and fire weapons assigned to the commander of the battalion tactical group are combined into a single system, thanks to which he can fully independently conduct combat in a given direction. The new approach allows us to reconsider the traditional methods of conducting combined arms combat," the Central Military District said in a statement.

Technical reference

Tactical level complex "Sagittarius" for communications and reconnaissance control Quite recently, in the fifth motorized rifle brigade near Moscow, they began to master the "Sagittarius" complex for communications and intelligence control. The complex is produced at the domestic enterprise "Radioavionika". The tested individual complex is a kind of mobile type computer. Almost any device is connected to it.

When creating a network from the data of individual complexes, the unit commander's computer will display the necessary information about subordinates, as well as information about the enemy coming from them. To do this, an ordinary soldier needs to press just a couple of buttons and the coordinates of his location or the location of the enemy will appear on the commander's computer.

The head of the unit will be able to easily combine the received data with an electronic map of the area, or with a photograph of a given area received from a satellite. First, military intelligence officers will receive and master such complexes.

Photo: IA "ARMS OF RUSSIA", Alexey Kitaev

According to the designers, the Sagittarius complex is practically a mobile personal CIUS The Sagittarius tactical level complex for communications and intelligence management The Radioavionika enterprise once introduced the Sagittarius KRUS as a means of solving a wide range of information support tasks.

Sagittarius provides:

• combat control
• identification of detected objects and calculation of their coordinates
• target designation
• development of data for the effective use of personal weapons and means for close combat

The Sagittarius complex is interfaced with all Soviet and Russian reconnaissance equipment. In addition, the complex interacts with goniometers, radars, target designation, aiming devices and UAVs.

Photo: IA "ARMS OF RUSSIA", Alexey Kitaev

The complex was put into service in 2007 and is supplied in series. It goes primarily to ground reconnaissance units. The first samples of the complex, after passing through various field and combat tests, are sent for revision. Our scouts, having experience in operating foreign analogues of FELIN, IdZ-ES and Normans, asked the developers to improve the existing sample of the Sagittarius complex.

Firstly, the base of the first samples was made on the basis of elements of the 2000s. The designers were sympathetic to the request of the military and the modernized KRUS "Sagittarius" is being tested.

After successful tests, the ground units began to be massively provided with the complex. More than one thousand units of the Sagittarius complex have already entered the armed forces of the Russian Federation.

The first samples of KRUS were somewhat inconvenient for the soldiers - they had a fairly decent weight of 5.4 kilograms, interfered with the soldier when passing the assault strip, covered access to pouches and a medical kit. Now, after the modernization, the complex began to weigh 2.4 kilograms, received smaller overall characteristics, and large blocks are attached so as not to interfere with other tasks.

At the moment, there are no significant comments on the use of the Sagittarius complex from the military personnel of the ground units, where the complexes are mainly received.

KRUS "Sagittarius" can have several levels of configuration. The simplest configuration option is intended for military personnel of departments, up to the commander of the department.

The next level of configuration is intended for the platoon commander; the package includes a powerful computer system with a multifunctional type console.

The third, most complete level of equipment, is for the unit commander - battalion commander, brigade commander.

Photo: IA "ARMS OF RUSSIA", Alexey Kitaev

The range of interaction of the complex as part of the department is about one and a half kilometers, but any of the individual Sagittarius complexes works as a repeater, which significantly increases the range and information control of a given area. In addition to voice messages, built-in standard commands can be transmitted over the radio, the recipient can watch or listen to them after receiving.

This innovation was introduced specifically to ensure that the scouts do not get distracted from the task, do not lose visual control. KRUS incorporates an autonomous navigation module, which is provided with an inertial system. It makes it possible for a soldier to know exactly his coordinates, even if he has left the satellite navigation coverage area.

Switching between navigation systems occurs in the complex automatically. The complex can be equipped with a helmet-mounted display subsystem for producing fire from cover. For example, when interacting with the Shahin thermal imager, information from it is sent to the serviceman's indicator, which allows, without leaving the shelter, to conduct accurate and aimed fire.

There is also an identification subsystem of the “friend or foe” type in the complex. The range of the subsystem depends on the characteristics of the associated sighting devices. The subsystem sends a request to an unidentified object, and if the object is “own”, then the serviceman will hear a sound notification in the earpiece. If, after sending the request, the subsystem is “silent”, then the object is defined by the “Sagittarius” complex as “foreign”.