Iran unveils its latest innovation in air defense missile systems called 9-Dey at the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2024) in Qatar. This advanced missile system, described as a breakthrough in defense technology, highlights Iran's growing capabilities in indigenous military developments.
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Designed for mobility and quick deployment, the 9-Dey air defense missile system incorporates independent radar on each launcher and has eight missiles ready for launch at any given time. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
The 9-Dey air defense missile system integrates advanced 9-Dey missiles with the existing radar and launcher components of the Khordad 3 system. Its primary function is to counter conventional aerial threats such as fighter jets, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles. Additionally, it is equipped to intercept fast-moving cruise missiles and aerial bombs.
This air defense system is optimized for engaging low-altitude threats, including cruise missiles and drones, as well as airborne munitions. It proved its capability by successfully intercepting several targets during the "Defenders of the Sky of Velayat 2023" air defense exercise. The system was first unveiled by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on June 1, 2021.
The guidance system of the 9-Dey missile is based on "command guidance," indicating that the missile receives directions from the ground-based Khordad 3 system to approach its target. While this guidance method is common for surface-to-air missiles, the 9-Dey missile does not contain an internal guidance system. Nevertheless, it is fitted with laser proximity fuses and equipped with radar, thermal imaging, and optical detection capabilities to ensure accuracy against targets, even under intense electronic warfare conditions.
The missile design includes trapezoidal wings and control surfaces similar to those found in the "Taer" missile, indicating a focus on close-range engagements. The physical characteristics of the 9-Dey missile suggest a length of 3.5 to 4 meters, a diameter of about 25 cm, and a weight of approximately 200 kg. It is powered by solid fuel propellants and is capable of reaching speeds between Mach 3 and Mach 4, allowing it to cover its maximum range of 30 km within 22 to 32 seconds.
Designed for mobility and quick deployment, the 9-Dey system incorporates independent radar on each launcher and has eight missiles ready for launch at any given time, capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously. The structure of the defense system includes two sets of four 9-Dey missiles mounted on modified Khordad 3 launchers, enabling the system to handle up to 32 simultaneous threats.
