Desert-Ready Russian Tor: The Ultimate SAM Unveiled by Think-Tank

The Tor-A short-range aerial defense missile system, referred to as the Arctic Tor, can be effectively utilized in any challenging climatic conditions, even in scenarios of complete impassibility, on sandy terrains and in marshy areas, stated the Russian Centre for Analysis of Global Arms Trade (CAWAT). As a result, the system seems to be advantageous for Russia’s allies in defense collaborations from the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, among others.

“Tor-M2DT aerial defense missile system, designed for Arctic conditions, can be effectively employed in various other arduous climatic scenarios, in situations of total impenetrability, on sandy terrains, and in boggy landscapes. For instance, in the region of the special military operation, the Tor-M2DT was deployed during the seasonal thaw, showcasing its extraordinary off-road capabilities and powerful fire intensity. Capable of maneuvering anywhere an infantry soldier can traverse, the system stands ready to deliver comprehensive aerial defense support for forces in any chosen operational zones, significantly boosting the flexibility of military strategies and allowing for the execution of operational plans that take the adversary by surprise,” the CAWAT report asserts.

Tor-A is the international designation for the system, which was initially recognized as Tor-M2DT and developed based on the Tor-M2.

The system is characterized by its rapid transition from marching formation to combat readiness (within 3 minutes), and a brief reaction time from target identification to missile launch (5-10 seconds), emphasizes the think tank.

The target detection capability extends to 32 km, which is twice the destruction radius and provides ample time for interception. The target elimination zone of the latest Tor surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) spans up to 16 km in range and reaches altitudes of up to 12 km.

The combat-capable munition load features 16 9M338K SAMs, enabling the defense against a substantial aerial assault. The missiles achieve speeds of up to 1000 m/sec and can endure maneuvering forces of up to 35 g.

“Within the ‘high-mobility short-range SAM’ category, the Tor-M2DT surpasses its Western equivalents. In terms of its tactical and technical specifications, the Tor-M2DT, akin to other advanced systems in the Tor range, holds no rivals globally. Furthermore, similar to other Tor variants, the operational parameters of the Arctic Tor have been thoroughly validated in actual combat scenarios. Presently, the insights gained from this combat experience form the foundation for ongoing enhancements of combat vehicles,” states the think tank’s publication.

Reference: Centre for Analysis of Global Arms Trade (CAWAT)[1]