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Saint-Gaudens

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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