Development Work Begins On New Buk Missile

Almaz-Antey has begun development of next generation of the Buk medium-range advanced defense missile system.

The Buk missile is capable of destroying tactical and strategic aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and other aerodynamic aircraft at any point in their range of operation, along with tactical ballistic and aircraft missiles, and smart air bombs in conditions of heavy enemy counter fire and radio jamming; as well as to attack water and ground surface contrast targets, according to the company website.

"Almaz-Antey has given us the task of working out a proposal for the further development of the Buk air defense missile system," Yuriy Beliy, the VV Tikhomirova Scientific Research Institute of Instrument Design (NIIP)'s general director, told RIA Novosti on Tuesday.

"With Almaz-Antey, we will present our proposals to the Ministry of Defense. But, without waiting for a final decision from the MoD and with the full support of the company, the Scientific Research Institute has already initiated work on developing long-term technical solutions" Beliy added.

The latest developments in aerospace attack technology have made the further development of the Buk missile system a necessity, Beliy added.

"We must not pause in the development of equipment capable of countermeasures, including the development of equipment for ground forces engaged in air defense." the general director added.

The Buk-M2E system will be on display at the International Aviation and Space Salon, an airshow which takes place August 25-30 in Zhukovsky, near to Moscow.

"Almaz-Antey's exhibition space at the International Aviation and Space Salon will be used to demonstrate the 24 target air defense missile system, and its training apparatus," said Beliy.