Russia unveils new air-to-air missile RVV-MD2 at Army Event 2023
Russia unveils new air-to-air missile RVV-MD2 at Army Event 2023
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Amidst the military-technical frenzy of the "Army-2023" event, held from August 14 to 20 at Moscow's Patriot Park, a big discovery took center stage: the unveiling of the new-generation RVV-MD2 missile mock-up. This historic occasion marks the RVV-MD2's first public appearance, demonstrating Russia's commitment to upgrading missile technology for modern combat.
The RVV-MD2 missile is an advancement of the RVV-MD, which was itself an iteration of the famed Vympel R-73 missile, also known as the "Archer" in NATO parlance. When glimpses of the Vympel R-73's potential appeared after German reunification in the 1990s, Western onlookers were perplexed. The RVV-MD2 attempts to build on this tradition by improving its characteristics for the modern battle landscape.
RVV-MD2 / Izd. 760. Development of the AA-11 Archer short range air to air missile. 1/2#ARMY2023 pic.twitter.com/VgnKg8bvo7
— Michael Jerdev (@MuxelAero) August 14, 2023
According to the photos, the RVV-MD2 retains the traditional aerodynamic design and flight control features found in the R-73 missile family. This involves the use of a very effective engine thrust vectoring system. Significant alterations are noticed in the reduced size of the rear aerodynamic surfaces, which is most likely a deliberate tweak to allow compatibility with the Su-57 aircraft's internal weapon bays.
While the outward changes are evident, the most substantial improvements are expected to be within. The RVV-MD2 is believed to include an updated rocket engine, unique homing sensors, better software, and other unspecified upgrades. A closer look at the images reveals changes in the proximity fuze sensors, indicating Russia's advancement in downsizing technology.
The RVV-MD2 project, in essence, embodies the Russian idea of continuity and evolution—"if it ain't broke, don't fix it." This attitude recognizes the R-73 design's success, which was groundbreaking at the time. Rather than reinventing the wheel, Russia chooses strategic development, building on the capabilities of the proven R-73 design while modifying it to suit the needs of new combat scenarios.
Russia's commitment to improving its missile capabilities demonstrates its determination to preserve technological parity and strategic significance on the world arena. The development of the RVV-MD2 missile represents a continuing attempt to enhance and optimize existing designs, coinciding with Russia's quest for innovation and excellence in defense technology.
As the RVV-MD2 goes from mock-up to operational reality, it will definitely add to Russia's arsenal of cutting-edge military hardware, positioned to maintain the country's defensive capabilities and assert the country's place as a powerful actor in the expanding terrain of contemporary warfare.