The Vympel R-73 (NATO reporting name AA-11 'Archer') is the most modern Russian short-range air-to-air missile. It is generally considered one of the most formidable modern dogfight weapons.
Development
The R-73 was developed to replace the earlier R-60 (AA-8 'Aphid') weapon for short-range use by Soviet fighter aircraft. Work began in 1973, and the first missiles entered service in 1985.
The R-73 is an infrared-guided (heat-seeking) missile with a sensitive, cryogenic cooled seeker with a substantial "off-boresight" capability: the seeker can "see" targets up to 45° off the missile's centerline. It can be linked to a helmet-mounted sight, allowing pilots to designate targets by looking at them. Minimum engagement range is about 300 meters, with maximum aerodynamic range of nearly 30 km (18.75 mi) at altitude.
The R-73 is a highly maneuverable missile that in many respects is believed to be superior to the United States AIM-9M Sidewinder, prompting the development of a more sophisticated AIM-9X now entering squadron service.
From 1994 the R-73 has been upgraded in production to R-74EM standard (originally R-73M), which entered CIS service in 1997. The R-74EM has greater range and a wider seeker angle (to 60° off-boresight), as well as improved ECCM (resistance to countermeasures).
The weapon is used by the MiG-29, Su-27 and Su-35, and can be carried by some older MiG-21, MiG-23, Sukhoi Su-24, and Su-25 aircraft. It can also be carried by Russian attack helicopters, including the Mil Mi-24, Mil Mi-28, and Kamov Ka-50.
Specifications (R-73)
- Length: 2900 mm (9 ft 6 in)
- Wingspan: 510 mm (20 in)
- Diameter: 170 mm (6.7 in)
- Launch weight: 105 kg (231 lb)
- Speed: Mach 2.5
- Range: 30 km (18.75 mi)
- Guidance: infrared homing
- Warhead: 7.4 kg (16.3 lb)