The Institute of Applied Physics (IPF) unveiled its latest unguided air-launched missile system, the NAR equipped with the S-8KL cluster warhead, during Army-2023 forum events. This rollout was reported by DEA News, referencing the institute’s press service.
According to the press service, the missile carries a cluster warhead that disperses multiple submunitions. The payload comprises 24 submunitions, a feature described by the institute as part of a new development, with the designation letter “O” assigned at the end of 2022.
In the institute’s wording, the letter indicates that prototypes had been prepared prior to formal acceptance tests, underwent preliminary testing, and were adjusted based on results from those tests. Put differently, preliminary testing of a prototype or experimental batch has concluded and the design has been refined accordingly.
The IPF notes that the innovation is now at the final testing stage, signaling a nearing transition from development to potential production or operational deployment pending completion of all required evaluations.
The new ammunition is described as compatible with the main helicopter and aircraft platforms used by the army, including offensive and operational-tactical aviation units within the Russian Aerospace Forces. It is designed to be released from standard NAR launch rails as well as from B-8V10-UV smart launch blocks developed by Zaslon.
Earlier remarks around the Army-2023 forum highlighted the participation of foreign companies presenting their products alongside domestic developments, as stated by the forum organizers and participants.
The international Army-2023 forum took place from August 14 to 20 in Kubinka, near Moscow, and is organized by the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation. The event serves as a platform for displaying both national defense innovations and international defense collaborations.
The discussion around modern weapon types in the context of regional security dynamics is ongoing, with emphasis placed on how new systems may influence operational considerations in various theatres.