Magura V7 sea drones have been equipped with the latest version of AIM-9 missile: what is the advantage (photo)

It should be noted that the AIM-9X missile is the latest modification of the US series Sidewinder. It was adopted in 2003 and was represented by two main versions: Block 1 and Block 2. At the same time, Budanov did not specify which modification is used by the Ukrainian forces. According to analysts, earlier on Magura V7 installed AIM-9M on the launch rails of aviation type, which were raised before launch, but did not provide a lateral deviation.

This is important because AIM-9M does not have high angles of deviation from the aiming axis (Hobs), unlike, for example, the Russian P-73. Hobs rockets have hinged self -alienation heads, which enables them to capture the target even with a significant deviation from the longitudinal axis of the carrier. Given that the Magura V7 starting installation was fixed, the drone had to navigate precisely towards the target, both azimuth and vertically.

This is especially difficult to take into account the instability of the marine surface on which the boat is prone to swing. The defeat of the target in such conditions required a high level of accuracy and a certain part of luck. Aim-9X key improvements are a new MK-139 engine, which provides the maximum flight range up to 30 kilometers and increased rocket speed.

A significant innovation was also an improved target capture system after starting (LOAL), which allows the rocket to be used with the support of Link 16 tactical digital network. The rocket received an infrared camera instead of a standard infrared head of self -esteem, which provides more accurately capture of goals and increased stability. Additionally, the rocket is equipped with a radio, which provides radio correction at long distances.

According to Budanov, the installation of new rockets on sea drones was not a single initiative. In the near future, Ukraine plans to deploy a number of Magura V7 modifications, equipped not only with air defense, but also with radio electronic struggle, intelligence sensors and active protection. Some versions already contain machine guns for defense of the rocket complex.