[Ribbon-Grey]

Kh-35 KAYAK



The origins of this missile are obscure although its similarity to the Harpoon have led to the unofficial name ‘Harpoonski’ [Kharpunskiy]. The designation Kh-35 has been applied to it by Russian sources, although this probably refers to the air-launched version while the ship-launched version is reported to be named Uran.

In 1972 the Zvezda-Strela State Scientific-Industrial Center (GNPTs) group began working on the Uran (Western SS-N-25) anti-ship missile system for ships of various classes. The Kh-35 anti-ship cruise missile can be used by surface ships and motor boats, coastal reconnaissance/strike systems, naval helicopters and also by Air Force planes. The missile has been selected for the most modern of the Russian Navy’s ASW vessels, namely the Project 1154 Large Anti-Submarine Ships (‘Neustrashimy’ class frigates), and is being retrofitted into Type 1135 Escort Ships (‘Krivak I’ frigates) replacing the RBU mountings. It is also being offered with the ‘Gepard’ class Small Anti-Submarine Ship (frigates) which appears to be a replacement for the ‘Koni’ class on the export market.

The Uran missile systems comprise 16 Kh-35 missiles - 4x4 launchers with pressurized transport-launching containers. The SS-N-25 is an autonomous anti-ship missile system and consists of the missile, the launcher-handling system and probably a fire-control console. It is compatible with most surface search radars. The Uran system now serves as armament of Project 1149.8 missile equipped gun boats and other vessels. A coastal defense variant and, more recently, an antiaircraft variant were later developed on the basis of this missile.


Sources: Global Security

*Original Article by "Millie"*