Pantsir-SMD: a new-generation Russian anti-aircraft gun that has been reborn against drones

 

Russian troops have begun receiving a new, upgraded version of the well—known Pantsir-SMD anti-aircraft missile system. This was announced by the first Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Aerospace Forces, Lieutenant General Alexander Maksimtsev, in an interview with the newspaper Krasnaya Zvezda. The main message: The complex has been radically redesigned to effectively and economically combat the main threat of the modern battlefield — kamikaze drones.

How does the SMD differ from the old Pantsir?

The most striking change is the abandonment of guns. Four quadruple transport and launch containers (TPC) are now installed in place of two 30-millimeter 2A38(M) submachine guns. This made it possible to dramatically increase the ammunition.

Why did they take down the guns and put up the rockets?

The answer is simple: economics and efficiency. Although Pantsir-S1 cannons and missiles have proven effective, it is wasteful to use expensive standard anti—aircraft missiles to destroy cheap drones. Therefore, small-sized TKB-1055 anti-aircraft missiles replaced the guns. They are not only significantly cheaper, but also allow the complex to carry as many as 48 such mini-missiles. Now Pantsir-SMD can effectively repel massive drone attacks without wasting valuable large ammunition.

Where and how can it be used?

Another key advantage of Pantsir-SMD is its mobility and versatility of placement. Due to its compact size and modular design, it can be installed almost anywhere: on the roof of a factory, city hall, military base, on the chassis of any truck, or even on the deck of a ship. This makes it an ideal solution for protecting critical facilities from unexpected kamikaze drone attacks.

According to the military, Pantsir-SMD has already managed to confirm its stated characteristics in real combat conditions, becoming, in fact, a "battery in one complex" against the threat of drones.

The Russians have a new missile for fighters — the Ukrainian Armed Forces showed the wreckage of the "Product 180"

 

Su—35S

The Ukrainian military said: Russia has begun using a new ultra-long—range air-to-air missile, the Product 180, or K-77M (R-77M). The evidence is a photo of the wreckage, which the Ukrainian Armed Forces published after one of these missiles apparently missed its target or was shot down.

Photo of the wreckage of "Product 180"

What kind of "beast" is this? In fact, this is a major upgrade of the old R-77 ("product 170"), which the Russians have been using for a long time. But the new version is a completely different level. She has:

- The new dual—mode engine means it can fly at cruising speed for a long time and accelerate sharply on approach to the target.  

- Improved active radar homing head — searches for and clings to the target itself, regardless of the fighter's radar.  

- Redesigned tail unit — better maneuverability and stability over long distances.

The claimed range is up to 190 km, making it one of the longest—range missiles in the Russian arsenal. It was created specifically for the Russian fifth-generation Su—57, so that it could destroy targets before they noticed it, especially 4++ generation aircraft like the F-15EX, F-16V or Rafale.

But the most interesting thing is that in one of the photos, for the first time, the Su—35S VKS with the suspension of these missiles is clearly visible. That is, even without waiting for the full deployment of the Su-57, the Russians have already begun to put the K-77M on their best "fourth" fighters.

What does this mean for Ukraine?  

Obviously, the threat from the air is becoming more serious. Now Russian pilots can attack from a greater distance without entering the range of the Ukrainian air defense. And this forces the Ukrainian Armed Forces to reconsider tactics, better mask their radars and, possibly, accelerate the acquisition of more modern fighters.

So the Product 180 is not just a new rocket. This is a new stage in the air war. And now every duel in the sky can begin long before visual contact.

Swedish Saab 340 AEW&C AWACS aircraft spotted in the skies over Ukraine: opportunities and threats

 

Saab 340 AEW&C

In May 2024, the Swedish government announced the transfer to Ukraine of two Saab 340 AEW&C long-range radar detection and control aircraft, also known as ASC 890. These planes were announced as part of a new package of military assistance to Kiev. However, as early as April 21, 2025, one of these aircraft was spotted in the sky over the Lviv region, which confirmed their operational deployment on the territory of Ukraine.

The Saab 340 AEW&C is a light AWACS aircraft based on the Saab 340 civil turboprop airliner. It is equipped with modern radars and communication systems, which makes it an effective tool for monitoring air and sea space. The main characteristics of the aircraft include a speed of up to 520 km/h, a practical ceiling of 7,620 meters and the ability to work with Link 16 data channels. The latter allows him to safely exchange information with the Ukrainian F-16 fighters, ensuring coordination of the actions of the air defense and aviation of the Armed Forces of Ukraine without the need to use their own radars on the fighters.

The main purpose of the transfer of these aircraft is to strengthen Ukraine's airspace control and air defense coordination capabilities. This is especially important in conditions of active hostilities, where monitoring the situation in the air becomes a key success factor.

Nevertheless, Russian experts express confidence about the vulnerability of the Saab 340 AEW&C. In their opinion, these aircraft may face serious difficulties when trying to evade modern weapons, such as the R-37M missiles, which are in service with the Russian Aerospace Forces. With a launch range of up to 300 kilometers, these missiles pose a serious threat to AWACS aircraft, which usually operate at a considerable distance from the front line.

Despite this, the commissioning of the Saab 340 AEW&C significantly enhances Ukraine's operational capabilities. These aircraft make it possible to create a more effective early warning and control system, which can be an important advantage in the confrontation with Russia. However, their successful use will depend on the tactics of use and the level of protection that Ukraine can provide.

F-35A and Su-35 interaction off the coast of Alaska

An F-35A of the US Air Force and a Tu-95MS bomber and two Su-35 fighters of the Russian Air Force are in the air

On April 4, 2025, footage was released showing the close interaction of an F-35A fighter jet of the US Air Force and a Su-35 of the Russian Air Force off the coast of Alaska. During the incident, the F-35A was approaching the Russian aircraft and successfully positioned itself ahead and to its right. 

Details of the incident

Russian Su-35 fighters escorted Tu-95MS strategic bombers near the coast of the American state. Such patrols are a common practice for the Russian Air Force. However, this was the first known case of a USAF F-35A colliding with a Su-35 in such proximity. 

The significance of the incident

This event highlights the increasing tension in the airspace off the coast of Alaska. The Su-35 has been involved in close encounters with American warplanes in the past, but the encounter with the F-35A is a new milestone. The F-35A is one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, equipped with advanced stealth and electronic warfare systems. The Su-35, in turn, is one of the best Russian fighters, with high maneuverability and powerful weapons. 

Impact on international relations

Such incidents could exacerbate tensions between the United States and Russia and require a careful approach from both sides to avoid unintended escalation. At the same time, they also emphasize the importance of dialogue and measures to prevent incidents in the air.