Threat of the Week
9K330 Tor (SA-15 Gauntlet) Russian Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile System is a late Cold War-era self-propelled SAM system of Soviet origin. It was developed from 1975 to 1985 by Antei as a replacement for the older 9K33 Osa (SA-8 Gecko).
The Tor is also well known under its NATO reporting name SA-15 Gauntlet. Since its introduction, it is regarded as the most capable short-range self-propelled SAM system and continuous upgrades
The Tor is one of the few short-range SAM systems with high effectiveness against cruise missiles and precision-guided munitions.
Most Tor systems are based on the GM-355 tracked chassis that allows it to keep up with tanks and other armored vehicles through any terrain.
A towed version is available which has the advantage of reduced costs. The latest systems are also available on a large MZKT-6922 6x6 truck chassis that is cheaper,
offers more internal space, has even better mobility on roads, and still provides protection to the crew. None of the Tor systems are amphibious.
The Tor is based on a tracked chassis that protects the crew from small arms fire. The three crew members are seated in the front, an unmanned turret
is installed in the middle and the engine and drivetrain are located at the rear. Two boxes with four missiles are installed vertically in the middle of
the turret and extend into the hull of the vehicle. The tracking radar is installed at the front of the turret and the optical system is fitted next to it.
The search radar is fitted at the rear and is lowered behind the turret when not in use. The search radar rotates when in use and can be used on the move.
The medium-sized missiles use radio command guidance and are fitted with folding fins. Upon launch the vehicle comes to a halt, the missile is propelled
upwards by a gas charge, is rotated in the correct direction, and then the rocket ignites. The primary means of engaging targets is by radar guidance.
Each Tor system is fitted with a 25 km 360-degree search radar and 15 km 60-degree tracking radar. The Tor has a good ECM resistance but can also engage targets by TV tracking.
The TV tracking system has a maximum range of 20 km and is fitted with a laser range finder. The naval version uses a similar two-radar setup but has a more powerful search radar.
