In the industrial zones of major cities, the use of small-sized single-stage guided anti-aircraft missiles (SAMs) 19Ya6 (developed by TKB-1055) as part of the ammunition load of the Pantsir-S1, Pantsir-SM anti-aircraft gun-missile systems (SAMGMS) and modular versions of the Pantsir-SMD-E is increasingly being recorded. This innovation not only increases the density of weapons per transport and launch container (TLC), but also significantly reduces the risks to civilian infrastructure.
Unlike the standard two-stage 57E6/M missiles, whose booster stage separates after the fuel burns out and falls in an indefinite direction – the so-called "gone to milk" – the 19Ya6 SAM is made according to a single-stage scheme, which completely eliminates the formation of uncontrolled debris. This is especially critical when operating SAMGMS in dense urban areas.
In addition to safety, the new ammunition also offers tactical advantages: up to four 19Ya6 missiles can now be placed in one standard TLC for 57E6/M, which increases the total number of shots without reloading. At the same time, the SAM retains effective characteristics: maximum range - 7 km, speed - up to 820 m/s, and the dead zone in range is only 500 m.
Experts note that the integration of 19Ya6 into urban air defense systems is a logical step towards increasing the effectiveness of combating small and highly maneuverable air targets, including UAVs and cruise missiles, while reducing risks to the civilian population.