Breaking News
Russia Upgrades Thermal Sights for MANPADS Following Its Experience in Ukraine.
As part of its ongoing commitment to enhance operational capabilities, JSC LOMO, a subsidiary of the Kalashnikov Group, has completed extensive testing on a new variant of the Mowgli-2 thermal imaging sight. These tests revealed that the upgraded Mowgli-2 version surpasses initial specifications, highlighting significant performance improvements based on field experiences, particularly those gained in the context of the conflict in Ukraine.
Compared to earlier versions, the Mowgli-2 and Mowgli-2M are now nearly half as heavy. (Picture source: Kalashnikov)
LOMO’s modernization efforts demonstrate a sustained drive to improve the technical characteristics of its defense products. The Mowgli-2 and Mowgli-2M thermal imaging sights, tailored for man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS), now perform more effectively in both day and night combat conditions. Their enhanced capabilities in target detection, tracking, and engagement make them highly valuable in high-demand operational zones like Ukraine.
These recent updates bring improvements in both maneuverability and performance. Compared to earlier versions, the Mowgli-2 and Mowgli-2M are now nearly half as heavy, with reduced dimensions that improve their portability and ease of handling for personnel. Furthermore, these modernized models offer an extended detection range, essential for increasing situational awareness in critical scenarios. Enhanced compatibility with target designation systems has also been integrated, enabling joint operations and facilitating the installation of these sights on various platforms beyond MANPADS, thus broadening their operational flexibility.
Man-portable air defense systems, or MANPADS, play a crucial role in the Ukrainian conflict. Designed for use by a single operator, these systems allow the targeting and neutralization of low-flying aircraft, such as helicopters, combat planes, and drones. Their portability and efficiency make them essential tools for forces in Ukraine, particularly in areas where heavier air defense infrastructure is either absent or damaged.
Modern versions of MANPADS benefit from advanced technologies, such as cooled infrared seekers, which increase the accuracy and detection range of targets. These improvements enable operators to detect and engage targets more quickly and efficiently, even in complex or congested environments. Additionally, the reduced weight and size of these systems facilitate rapid deployment and use by mobile units, thus increasing tactical flexibility on the field.
The primary utility of MANPADS lies in their capacity to provide immediate and responsive air defense. In the Ukrainian context, where armed forces frequently face unexpected aerial incursions, the availability of MANPADS allows for effective countermeasures against these threats. For instance, reports indicate that Ukrainian forces have used MANPADS to down Russian Shahed drones, demonstrating their effectiveness against a variety of aerial targets.
These upgrades reflect LOMO's proactive approach to defense technology, continuously adapting its products to meet evolving tactical demands and supporting personnel in challenging field environments, as seen in Ukraine.