9th Missile Defense Division
Organizational Structure and Command
The 9th Missile Defense Division, headquartered in Sofrino, Moscow Oblast, is a pivotal component of Russia's strategic missile defense network. Commanded by Major General Sergey Grabchuk, the division oversees several subordinate units responsible for the operation, maintenance, and security of missile defense assets in the Moscow region. The division's structure integrates command posts, technical bases, missile complexes, and specialized radio-technical units, ensuring a layered and coordinated defense posture.
Command and Control Nodes
The 900th Missile Defense System Command Post (military unit 20007) functions as a central node for operational command and control within the division. It is responsible for the real-time coordination of missile defense operations, integrating data from radar units and missile complexes to facilitate rapid decision-making and engagement processes. The 102nd Separate Missile Defense Center (military unit 48701) provides additional command capabilities, likely focusing on operational planning, training, and system readiness.
Radar and Early Warning Assets
The division operates advanced radar installations critical for early warning and target tracking. The 482nd Separate Radio-Technical Unit (military unit 03523) manages the Don-2N radar, a large, phased-array system capable of detecting and tracking ballistic missile threats at long ranges. The 572nd Separate Radio-Technical Unit (military unit 03863) operates the Dunay-3U radar, which provides supplementary coverage and redundancy. These radar assets form the backbone of the division's situational awareness and engagement capability.
Missile Defense Complexes and Armament
The division's missile defense capability is centered on the A-135 anti-ballistic missile system, deployed across multiple complexes: the 15th (military unit 51087), 16th (military unit 51086), 49th (military unit 51084), 50th (military unit 51085), and 89th (military unit 51089) Missile Defense Complexes. Each complex is equipped with 53T6 (Gazelle) interceptor missiles, designed for high-speed interception of incoming ballistic warheads. The distribution of these complexes around Moscow provides overlapping coverage and enhances the resilience of the defense network.
Technical Support and Logistics
The 1876th Technical Base (military unit 02014) is responsible for the storage and maintenance of 53T6 missiles used by the A-135 system. Secure storage and regular technical servicing at this facility are essential for maintaining the operational readiness of the missile inventory. The technical base also likely supports logistical functions, including the transport and handling of sensitive missile components.
Communications and Data Processing
The 34th Communications Regiment (military unit 12517) ensures robust and secure communications across the division's assets, supporting both routine operations and crisis response. The 164th Information Processing Point (military unit 52361), reportedly reconstituted after a fire incident, is tasked with aggregating, processing, and disseminating sensor and command data. This unit's role is critical for the timely relay of information between radar sites, command posts, and missile complexes, enabling coordinated defensive actions.
Infrastructure Capabilities and Redundancy
The division's infrastructure is characterized by multiple, geographically dispersed sites, each with specialized functions. This dispersion enhances survivability against potential attacks and ensures continuity of operations. The integration of redundant radar coverage, multiple missile launch complexes, and secure communications nodes collectively contribute to a robust and resilient missile defense posture for the Moscow region.
Operational Readiness and Modernization
The 9th Missile Defense Division maintains a high level of operational readiness, supported by regular training, system upgrades, and technical maintenance. While the A-135 system remains the primary asset, ongoing modernization efforts are reported, including potential upgrades to missile interceptors and radar systems. These initiatives aim to address emerging threats and extend the operational lifespan of the division's core capabilities.