Volunteers from Rivne, who created the Apate team, which produces models for the front, have developed a copy of the MIM-23 HAWK anti-aircraft system. Previously, they created models for Starlink terminals and an F-16 aircraft.
Volunteers from Rivne, who created the Apate team, which produces models for the front, have developed a copy of the MIM-23 HAWK anti-aircraft system. Previously, they created models for Starlink terminals and an F-16 aircraft.
The new decoys recreate the appearance of M-192 launchers, with three MIM-23 anti-aircraft missiles of the same name on the guides.
«The models have a low level of detail, differences in design and shapes from the original. However, this can be compensated for by the low resolution and shooting distance of Russian reconnaissance drones operating in the rear areas of Ukraine», — Militarnyi notes.
The MIM-23 HAWK was put into service back in 1960, during which time it underwent four major modernizations, the last of which, in particular the massive Phase III, took place in the 1990s, actually before its decommissioning. The last widespread modernization included the digitalization of the complex, with the ability to simultaneously intercept multiple targets and destroy low-altitude targets.
Experts note that it is simple, reliable, highly mobile on towed launchers, easily modernized, and works well against slow drones, cruise missiles, and manned aircraft. In addition, the HAWK missile is compatible with another, more modern air defense system used by Ukraine: the American-Norwegian National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System, or NASAMS.
There was talk of transferring HAWK systems to Ukraine back in 2022, in particular, Spain stated that it had given the Ukrainian Armed Forces two HAWK air defense system batteries with 6 launchers each, probably along with a supply of missiles.
Last fall, it was reported that Taiwan had likely transferred its surplus HAWK anti-aircraft missile batteries to the Ukrainian Air Force. The HAWK missiles are compatible with the modern NASAMS system, but it is likely that this is not a direct transfer of weapons to the Defense Forces.
Recall that in the summer, Apate showed a full-size model of the F-16 fighter jet, which will be used by the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine at military airfields.
