Buk-M2E.

Technical Data

• Armament and Radar Systems

  The Buk-M2E system revolves around the 9A317E TELAR, a self-propelled combat vehicle that combines missile launch, target detection, illumination, and fire-control capabilities. Each TELAR carries four ready-to-launch 9M317E missiles, positioned vertically in a 2×2 configuration at the rear of the vehicle. This turret-mounted launcher allows full 360-degree engagement coverage without chassis repositioning.

  A multifunctional passive electronically scanned array (PESA) radar is mounted in the central upper section of the TELAR, between the crew cabin and launcher. Operating in the X-band, this radar can detect targets up to 120 kilometers away, track up to 10 targets simultaneously, and guide four missiles concurrently using mid-course updates and continuous wave illumination for terminal homing.

  Adjacent to the radar is a dual-channel electro-optical sighting system (OES) with both thermal and TV sensors, enabling passive target detection and engagement in all-weather, day- and night-time conditions. This system allows the TELAR to operate in radar-silent mode, enhancing survivability in ECM-intensive environments. An integrated IFF antenna supports secure identification of friend or foe aircraft to prevent fratricide.

• Missiles

  The Buk-M2E is armed primarily with the 9M317E missile, a high-performance, solid-fuel interceptor equipped with a 70-kg fragmentation warhead and proximity fuze. The missile is 5.55 meters in length, weighs approximately 710–720 kg, and is capable of destroying maneuvering and low-RCS targets.

  Guidance is provided through inertial navigation with radio-command mid-course correction, followed by semi-active radar homing in the terminal phase. The missile’s aerodynamic engagement envelope extends from 3 to 45 kilometers in range, with altitudes from 15 meters to 25 kilometers. It can intercept cruise missiles flying as low as 100 meters at up to 20 kilometers, and tactical ballistic targets out to 20 kilometers.

  The system retains backward compatibility with 9M38M1 missiles used in earlier Buk models, enabling cost-effective use of legacy inventories. Some configurations also support newer variants such as the 9M317A or 9M317ME, which offer enhanced maneuverability, jamming resistance, and engagement range. TELARs can carry mixed-load configurations, deploying multiple missile types based on threat conditions.

• Design and Protection

  The 9A317E TELAR (Transporter Erector Launcher) is mounted on a MZKT-6922 6×6 wheeled chassis, offering a balance between off-road capability, high speed, and reduced maintenance. The chassis features a forward-mounted armored cabin, a mid-section radar suite, and a rear-mounted missile launcher. This configuration ensures optimal weight distribution and component access.

  Protection includes light armor resistant to small arms and fragmentation, and a fully sealed NBC overpressure system allowing sustained operation in contaminated environments. The crew consists of four members: commander, driver, radar operator, and fire-control officer. Each operator uses multifunction consoles integrated into the vehicle’s fire-control and targeting systems.

  The TELAR’s electro-optical sensors provide a radar-independent engagement option, allowing stealth operations and redundancy in the event of radar suppression. The combined use of radar and passive sensors ensures robustness across a wide spectrum of operational environments.

• Mobility

  The Buk-M2E is based on the MZKT-6922 6×6 wheeled tactical vehicle, engineered for mobility across diverse terrain. Powered by a diesel engine and equipped with all-wheel drive, the vehicle reaches a top speed of 65 km/h and has an operational range of 500 km.

  Mobility is enhanced by a central tire pressure regulation system, allowing on-the-move adaptation for various terrain types, including mud, sand, and snow. The wheeled chassis reduces logistical demands and improves the system’s deployability, particularly in environments where tracked vehicles are less practical or more costly to maintain.

• Command and Control Vehicles

  The Buk-M2E battery is coordinated through the 9S510E command post vehicle, which functions as the central hub for data fusion, threat assessment, and fire control. It receives input from radars, TELARs, and higher-level C2 structures, enabling simultaneous tracking of up to 50 aerial targets and coordination of engagements across multiple launcher vehicles.

  Each Buk-M2E battery typically includes other supporting radar systems. The 9S18M1E is a long-range surveillance and target acquisition radar mounted on a separate vehicle. It provides extended-range airspace coverage and supports target designation across the battery. The 9S36E is a target illumination and guidance radar, mounted on a 21-meter telescopic mast, offering elevated line-of-sight particularly valuable for tracking low-flying targets in rugged or cluttered environments.

  The 9S510E is fully compatible with upper-echelon C4I systems such as the Polyana-D4M1 automated command suite, allowing the Buk-M2E to function independently or as part of a broader integrated air defense network. Communications use encrypted and jam-resistant radio links or fiber-optic lines where available.

  The command post is mounted on a wheeled chassis, maintaining operational mobility, and is hardened against EMP and electronic attack. It features multiple workstations, secure communications, and integrated battle management software, enabling precise control of the battery’s combat functions and situational awareness in dynamic combat environments.