The Libyan National Army (LNA) have captured two 9K32M Strela-2M man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADs) from forces loyal to the Government of National Accord (GNA).
Libyan sources released a photo of the two Soviet-made missiles, which were seized near the coastal city of Sirte. The LNA imposed control over the city earlier this week after a successful rapid attack.
weapons and vehicles were seized by #LNA units in #Sirte #Libya – including two 9K32M Strela-2M MANPADs pic.twitter.com/mel92AfLUC
— Mohamed Mansour ?? (@Mansourtalk) January 9, 2020
The 9K32M Strela-2M is the second generation of the original 9K32 Strela-2, with an improved infrared homing system, a more effective warhead and engine as well as an updated detection system. The updated missile’s top firing range is 4,200 m.
Last month, GNA forces used a Strela-2-type MANPADs to shot down a MiG-23 warplane of the LNA’s air force over the city of Zawiya, to the west of the Libyan capital Tripoli.
GNA forces are operating other types of MANPADs, including Chinese-made FN-6. The modern missile has a maximum firing range of 6,000 m.
Unlike the FN-6, which may have been supplied to GNA forces by Turkey or Qatar, the 9K32M Strela-2M MANPADs were likely looted from the former Libyan Army’s depots following the 2011 NATO-led intervention in the country that led to a state of chaos.
Cool, dissect them to see if they have GPS tracking inside, some kind of network connection or an internal clock in which they can be fired.
Or if they have been modified at all.
Why internal clock? How does that help diagnosis?
I am guessing at the timing of supplies or something, linked with the GPS. I am only guessing.
Thanks ,it sounds plausible.
They might have a built in expiration date after which they won’t function. That way they can only be used for specific jobs. Same with GPS.
I heard the Serbs couldn’t operate much of their rockets and the French remotely- switched them off!