9K33M3 “Osa-AKM” air defense system

The 9K33M3 “Osa-AKM” air defense system, equipped with the R-73 missile, was modernized as part of the “HORNET” project from the “Return Alive” fund.

Modernization of the “Wasp” in the Ground Forces is an analogue of the “FrankenSAM” program, which, thanks to the help of the United States, is being implemented in the Air Force. Unlike FrankenSAM, complexes upgraded under the HORNET program can use Soviet-style air-to-air missiles.

The aviation missile has some advantage, because it works according to the principle of “fired and forgotten”, it does not need to be accompanied like a standard Wasp missile. Immediately after the R-73 is fired, you can move from your positions so as not to receive a retaliatory blow , – explains the “Return Alive” consultant, serviceman Oleksiy Dubinka.

More than 14 million hryvnias were spent on the modernization program, and all the anti-aircraft missile regiments of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which are armed with Osya, received updated air defense systems.