Jordanian 9M33M2 surface-to-air missiles fill the Ukrainian stocks
Ukraine continues to feel the need for all kinds of ammunition. Surface-to-air missiles for Ukrainian air defense systems with different ranges are one of the most sought after by the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Only through them will Ukraine be able to counter Russian airstrikes.
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Photos of “orange-toned” missiles for the mobile short-range tactical surface-to-air missile system 9K33 Osa have appeared on the web. This is a system from the era of the Soviet Union.
Until years ago, Jordan still used its Soviet-made 9K33 Osa as part of the kingdom’s air defenses. In 2017, Aman decided to withdraw them from service. It subsequently decided to put its 53 systems up for sale. He failed to sell all, but only 35 units. They went to Armenia in 2020.
About 9M33M2 missiles
How the “orange” Jordanian missiles ended up in Ukraine is not clear. Two options are possible: a direct transfer from Jordan, or a transfer through the participation of a third party. The latter practice has been quite often observed since the beginning of the war by countries that want to avoid “direct involvement in supplies to Ukraine”, mostly for political reasons related to Moscow.
According to various opinions, the “orange” missiles are less capable than those of Ukraine. Jordanian missiles are the 9M33M2 model, while Ukraine has [had] the 9M33M3 variant. According to sources, Jordanian missiles have 50%-60% interception, while the 9M33M3 is somewhere around 80%.
BulgarianMilitary.com reminds us that, in addition to its stocks of 9K33 Osa air defense systems, since the beginning of the war, Kyiv has received donations of the same systems from other countries.
9K33 Osa SAM system (SA-8)
9K33 Osa is a highly mobile, low-altitude, short-range tactical surface-to-air missile system developed during the Soviet era in the late 6’s and early 70s of the last century. The system has extensive proven combat experience, having participated in almost all military conflicts from the 1980s to the present day, including the recent military operations in Nagorno-Karabakh, Syria, and the Libyan civil war in 2020.
According to unofficial information, a total of 1,200 units of this system have been built. It is powered by a D20K300 diesel engine, which provides a top speed of 80 km / h. 9K33 Osa weighs 17.5 tons and includes a crew of 5 soldiers. The armament of the 9K33 Osa consists of 6 9M33, 9M33M1, 9M33M2, or 9M33M3 missiles that ensure an operational range of 30 km. Currently, 9K33 Osa is in service in 24 countries in Asia, Africa, and Europe.
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