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9K31 Strela-1


NATO: SA-9 Gaskin


Overview


9K31 Strela-1

Croatian military 9K31 Strela-1 system.
Source: Toca - © GNU Attribution - Share Alike license

Origin
Soviet Union
Type
Self-propelled SAM system
Entered service
1968
Status
Limited service
Development
1960 - 1968
Developer
Soviet Union - Nudelman OKB-16 design bureau
Production
1968 - ?
Producer
Soviet Union
Designations
SA-9 Gaskin (NATO reporting name)
Notable users
Soviet Union

Description


Introduction

The 9K31 Strela-1 is a self-propelled SAM system of Soviet origin. In the West this system is better known by its NATO reporting SA-9 Gaskin. The 9K31 was designed to complement the ZSU-23-4 self-propelled anti-aircraft gun as a regimental asset.

Design

The 9K31 is based on the BRDM-2 4x4 chassis. The driver and commander are seated in the front and the gunner in the turret. Up to four launch container can be attached to the turret. During travel the missiles are lowered. The 9K31 is a stand alone system, but usually it operates in pairs or groups of four. Target information is relayed by radio by other air defense systems.

Firepower

The turret is fitted with four 9M31 Strela-1 surface to air missiles with infrared guidance. The maximum effective range is 4.2 km and maximum altitude is 3 km. Due to the limitations of the seeker the maximum range can only be achieved under favorable circumstances. Effectiveness during head-on engagements and at night is much reduced.

Protection

The steel armor protects from small arms fire and shell splinters. The 9K31 is operated under full armor protection, except for reloading the missiles. An NBC system is fitted while smoke grenade dischargers are not.

Mobility

The BRDM-2 chassis provides a high road speed and reasonable cross country performance. Since the belly wheels are not fitted the cross country capability is slightly less. A 140 hp petrol engine provides propulsion. The 9K31 is fully amphibious.

Users

The 9K31 Strela-1 was very common during the Cold War. While the 9K31 is cheap and a stand-alone system it was widely exported to nations with close ties to the USSR. In Russia and most Eastern European systems the 9K31 was replaced by the 9K35 Strela-10 (SA-14 Gopher), but the 9K31 remains in widespread use around the world.

Details


Facts 9K31 Strela-1
General
Origin
Soviet Union
Type
Self-propelled SAM system
Crew
3 (commander, driver, gunner)
Dimensions
Weight
7.0 t combat load
Length
5.75 m
Width
2.35 m
Height
2.3 m with launcher lowered
4 m with launcher erected
Main armament
Type
9M31 or 9M31M surface to air missile
Mount
Quadruple launcher
Ammunition
6 missiles, 4 ready to fire
Gun sight
PP-61AM
Elevation
+20 to +80° elevation, powered
Traverse
360° traverse, 15 - 20°/s powered
Stabilization
No, but able to fire on the move at limited speeds
Chassis
Chassis type
Wheeled chassis, 4x4
4 retractable chain-driven belly wheels
Tire size
13.00 x18
Tread
1.84 m
Wheelbase
3.1 m
Automotive
Engine model
GAZ-41
Engine type
V8 petrol
Power output
140 hp at 3.400 rpm
Transmission
Manual, 4 forward, 1 reverse
Fuel
290 L
Mobility
Speed
100 km/h on road
10 km/h in water
Range
750 km on road
Turn radius
9 m
Power to weight ratio
20.0 hp/t
Obstacle crossing
Ground clearance
0.43 m
Wall
0.4 m
Trench
1.25 m
Gradient
60%
Fording
Amphibious
Protection
Armor type
Steel
Thickness
7mm all around
NBC system
Yes
Equipment
Night vision
Yes
Radio
Intercom and long range radio

Media


Related articles


9K32 Strela-2

The 9K32 Strela-2 is a smaller and man portable missile sharing design elements with the 9K31 Strela-1.

ZSU-23-4 Shilka

The 9K31 Strela-1 was designed to complement the ZSU-23-4 self-propelled anti-aircraft gun.

9K35 Strela-10

The 9K35 Strela-10 (NATO: SA-13 Gopher) is the successor to the 9K31.