Russia offers missile systems to defend Gulf oil fields
By Steve Rodan, Middle East Newsline
SPECIAL TO WORLD TRIBUNE.COM
Friday, March 23, 2001
ABU DHABI — Russia, whose plans to sell
fighter-jets and anti-aircraft systems to Iran worry
Teheran's southern neighbors, has offered missile
protection to Arab states in the Gulf.
Russia asserts that it is ready to sell and deploy
radar-mounted missile systems that can defend the huge
oil fields in the Gulf. The system is meant to protect
against low-altitude missiles, helicopters and
aircraft.
The Phoenix missile is being presented at the
International Defence Exhibition, or IDEX 2001, in Abu
Dhabi. It is the first appearance of the Phoenix.
So far, Russian defense officials appear pleased
with the response. "Several delegates showed interest
in this system," Vacheslav Shirnin, the system's
designer, said. "It could protect oil fields or other
vital facilities, population centers and armed forces
in the battle field."
Gulf defense officials have warned that Russia's
expected sale of the S-300 anti-aircraft system will
heighten tension in the region. They said the S-300
could disrupt any air exercise by the six-member Gulf
Cooperation Council.
Russia has expressed understanding, but officials
said sales will not be halted to Teheran. Instead,
officials have discussed selling the Phoenix to such
GCC states as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab
Emirates. The UAE appears most threatened by Iranian
missiles.
The Phoenix is described as a long-range infrared
search and track system. It can be used with most
missiles, including the U.S.-made Stinger.
Officials said Russia has begun production but has
not become operational. The radar-mounted system is
meant for point defense. The missile rotates in a full
circle and then intercepts and destroys enemy air
targets.
Shirnin said the system can deploy the Soviet-built
Grad and Sam missiles. The system can be installed on
top of an oil rig or military vehicle.
"The system cannot be detected by radar because it
does not emit any radiation," Shirnin said.
Russian officials said the Phoenix can track up to
100 targets simultaneously.
Russia might be selling the S-300 to Iran. But
Moscow is also offering it for sale at IDEX, which is
displaying the latest version, the S-300 PMU1.
Officials said this system is far superior to the
rival U.S. Patriot system.
Another market for the S-300 is Syria. "We are
holding negotiations with several countries, including
Syria and other Middle East states, to supply them
with this advanced system," said Vitaly Kachalin, a
consultant with the S-300 marketing effort.
Friday, March 23, 2001
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