A missile launched in backward direction
with combined aerodynamical/gas-dynamical controls.
A missile is being developed, based on R-73, for use on the fighter, bomber, transport and anti-submarine planes. Provides the protection of rear hemisphere. Launched in the direction opposite to the direction of flight.
Scheme: Trajectory of the "backward" start missile. From left to right: carrier, missile, target.
Next paragraph:
Missile provides the destruction of aerial targets in day and night time, in presence of natural and organized interference, against earth or water surface. No limitations for special launch conditions, works as "fire and forget" missile.
Technical parameters:
Launch mass: 115kg
Length: 3.2m
Diameter: 0.17m
Wingspan: 0.404m
Target altitude range: 0.05 - 13km
Range: 1-12km
Targeting (homing) method - passive infrared
Targeting angles: 60 degrees
Warhead mass: 7.4kg
Locks on target according to targeting information from rear-hemisphere onboard radar.
Special features:
Controlled flight with angle of attack 180-90 degrees at Vx<0 with gas-dynamical controls. Launches from rail.
Analogues not known.
Development status: experimental stage.
Launches performed from Su-27 at M<0 and M>0.