Russian army receives more anti-tank vehicles Shturm-S and Khrizantema-S despite economic sanctions.

In a significant move amidst ongoing economic sanctions, ROSTEC, Russia's State Defense Company, has announced the successful completion of delivering a fleet of advanced Shturm-S and Khrizantema-S anti-tank armored vehicles to the Russian armed forces. This delivery comes as a notable achievement for ROSTEC, considering the backdrop of heightened economic pressures faced by Russia due to its military actions in Ukraine.
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Russian State Defense Company ROSTEC delivers Shturm-S and Khrizantema-S anti-tank armored vehicles to the Russian army. (Picture source Vitaly Kuzmin, editing Army Recognition Group)

The Shturm-S and Khrizantema-S vehicles are renowned for their state-of-the-art technology and formidable capabilities in anti-tank warfare. The Shturm-S, equipped with powerful guided missiles and sophisticated targeting systems, enhances the Russian military's ability to engage armored targets effectively. The Khrizantema-S, on the other hand, is celebrated for its versatility and precision, boasting advanced radar and thermal imaging systems for target acquisition.

This development is seen as a strategic move by ROSTEC to bolster the Russian military's operational capacity, especially in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It also highlights Russia's resilience and determination to continue its defense advancements despite facing international sanctions.

The completion of this delivery is likely to have significant implications on the dynamics of the conflict in Eastern Europe, potentially escalating tensions in the already volatile region. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of economic sanctions as a tool to influence state behavior in international politics.

The Shturm-S 9P149, a Soviet-era tank destroyer, was developed to enhance the capabilities of the Soviet armed forces in response to advanced Western tanks like the M1 Abrams and Leopard 2. Based on the MT-LB tracked armored personnel carrier, the 9P149 features a unique design, incorporating a single round retractable pedestal launcher connected to an automatic loader in place of the troop compartment. This launcher employs the 9M114 Shturm anti-tank missiles, also used on the Mi-24 attack helicopter.

In terms of firepower, the Shturm-S 9P149 leverages the high-velocity, radio-frequency guided 9M114 Shturm missile, capable of engaging modern tanks effectively within a 5 km range. It can also use the longer-range 9M120 Ataka missile, enhancing its combat versatility. The system has a rate of fire of 2 to 4 rounds per minute and carries a total of 12 missiles. However, it cannot fire while on the move and lacks secondary armament for self-protection.

The Shturm-S is a Russian-made anti-tank armored vehicle based on the tracked vehicle MTLB. (Picture source Vitaly Kuzmin)

The Khrizantema-S anti-tank missile system is based on the BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle chassis, a choice that significantly contributes to its robust mobility and versatility. The BMP-3 chassis is known for its excellent all-terrain capabilities, allowing the Khrizantema-S to maneuver effectively in various combat environments, from rugged terrains to urban settings. This platform not only provides the system with high mobility but also offers a degree of armored protection, enhancing its survivability on the battlefield. The integration of the Khrizantema-S system with the BMP-3 chassis results in a highly mobile, well-protected, and effective anti-tank platform, capable of operating in diverse and challenging combat scenarios.

The Khrizantema-S is armed with powerful 9M123 anti-tank guided missiles, capable of striking targets up to 6 kilometers away. This long-range engagement ability, coupled with its high rate of fire, makes the Khrizantema-S a formidable anti-tank weapon. Additionally, the Khrizantema-S's automated fire control system enhances its operational efficiency, reducing the time between target detection and engagement, crucial in high-tempo combat scenarios.

The Khrizantema-S is a Russian-made anti-tank armored vehicle based on the tracked IFV BMP-3. (Picture source Vitaly Kuzmin)

Defense News December 2023