9A35 Strela-10. GRAU classification: 9K35. NATO reporting name: SA-13 “Gopher”

The 9K35 Strela-10 (Russian: 9К35 «Стрела-10»; English: arrow) is a Soviet highly mobile, short-range surface-to-air missile system. It is visually aimed, and utilizes optical/infrared-guidance. The system is primarily intended to engage low-altitude threats, such as helicopters. The 9K35 is the successor of the 9K31 Strela-1.

Development of the 9K37 Strela-10SV system was initiated July 24, 1969. The decision to begin the development of a new non-all-weather system was taken despite the simultaneous development of an all-weather hybrid gun/missile system 9K22 “Tunguska” mainly as an economical measure. It was also seen as advantageous to have a system capable of fast reaction times and immunity to heavy radio-frequency jamming.

Rather than being mounted on an amphibious but lightly armoured BRDM chassis like the 9K31, the 9K35 is mounted on a more mobile tracked, modified MT-LB, with more room for equipment and missile reloads. Provision for amphibious capability is provided in some variants in the form of polyurethane-filled floats.

Development bureau: KB Tochmash (USSR)

Assembly: Saratovskiy Zenit Machine Plant (Saratov, USSR)

Years of production: 1970—

In service: 1976—

Issued: 500 units

Crew: 3 persons

Armour: 7 mm

Engine: YaMZ-238 V (diesel)

Power: 240 HP

Max speed: 60 km/h

Range: 500 km

Fire range: 5 km

Weight: 12,320 kg

Armament: 4 × 9M37

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