The FrankenSAM project, an innovative collaboration between Ukraine and the U.S., has been a subject of interest since its inception in October 2023. This advanced surface-to-air missile system marked a significant milestone in January 2024 when it successfully downed its first target. Despite its achievements, official visuals of the system were not available until recently.
The East Operational Command has now unveiled the Buk SAM system modified with the RIM-7 Sea Sparrow missiles. Although the 9A310 self-propelled firing unit was covered with a camouflage net, certain details of the integration are now publicly known.
Read more: Strengthening the Ukrainian Army: The New US Aid Package May Include FrankenSAM and ATACMS
Key insights into the FrankenSAM project reveal that the launch mechanism of the Buk system has remained largely original, with minor modifications. It now accommodates the same number of the RIM-7 missiles in transport-launch containers as it did with the Soviet-era 9M38 missiles.
Additionally, photos reveal that the radar equipment of the 9A310 has seen no significant changes, with the radome of the 9S35 radar station intact. It remains uncertain whether the original Soviet radar system, responsible for detection, tracking and target illumination, has been replaced or upgraded.
However, it is likely that the 9S35 system remains functional, operating in the centimeter range similar to the RIM-7 missile’s target illumination radar (Mk 115, Mk 95 or Mk 23). This suggests that while fundamental frequencies and modulations may have required adjustment, the core radar system remains unchanged.
The effectiveness of the FrankenSAM is further highlighted by the markings of destroyed targets visible in the photo – two reconnaissance UAVs and the Lancet drone. This indicates the system’s capability to neutralize even small, agile targets.
Despite its success, the adaptation to the RIM-7 missiles has slightly reduced the Buk’s operational range. The RIM-7 missile offers a range of around 20 km, whereas the heavier Soviet 9M38 missile had a reach of up to 30 km. However, the primary challenge lies in the availability of the 9M38 missiles, which, if still in production, are only manufactured in russia. Therefore, the transition to the RIM-7 missile is not only pragmatic but has proven to be a swift and effective solution. Without this adaptation, the Buk systems, faced with a shortage of compatible missiles, might have been rendered obsolete or repurposed for non-combat roles.
Read more: FrankenSAM Jointly Produced by United States and Ukraine Used Against russian Shahed Drones
