9K333 Verba

Verba
Type Man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS)
Place of origin
 Russia
Service history
In service 2014–present
Used by See Operators
Production history
Manufacturer KB Mashinostroyeniya - developer of the system
Produced 2011–present
Specifications
Warhead 1.5 kg (3.3 lb)

Engine Solid fuel rocket motor
Flight ceiling 4.5 km (15,000 ft)
Guidance
system
Three-channel optical seeker (ultraviolet, near-infrared, mid-infrared)

The 9K333 Verba (Russian: Верба, "Pussy Willow") is a Russia man-portable infrared homing surface-to-air missile (SAM). "9K333" is the Russian GRAU designation of the system.

History

The 9K333 Verba was originally developed as a replacement for the 9K38 Igla.[1]

The Verba's primary new feature is its multispectral optical seeker, using three sensors - ultraviolet, near infrared, and mid-infrared - as opposed to the Igla-S' two. Cross-checking sensors against one another better discriminates between relevant targets and decoys, and decreases the chance of disruption from countermeasures, including lasers that attempt to blind missiles.[2]

Production

The system is in serial production for the Russian Armed Forces, with several ground forces and airborne formations receiving Verbas since 2014.[3] It first appeared with the Ivanovo VDV division after passing Army testing in the summer of 2011 and being confirmed for production in late 2011.[4] As of 2015, KBM has equipped the Russian army with three brigadier and two divisional sets. MANPADS "Verba" passed state tests in 2011.[5][6] Officially, it entered service in 2015.[7] KBM signed a long term contract with the Russian Ministry of Defense to supply Verba and carries out its production.[8]

Operators

 Russia

References

See also

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