The Ukrainian "Rif" air defense system strengthens air defense capabilities
Ukraine is already deploying and supplying its own “Rif” anti-aircraft missile systems, equipped with RK-10 missiles, to its armed forces. Analysts report that development of the system continued even during the full-scale Russian invasion.
According to experts, the new air defense missile system is gradually being integrated into Ukraine’s air defense system and is expected to strengthen the protection of its airspace against enemy threats.
The publication notes that development was underway at the time of the full-scale Russian invasion, and despite all the challenges, it was successfully completed and brought to mass production.
Ukrainian military personnel reported that they have been operating this system since January 2026 and are actively using it to intercept enemy drones.
Analysts noted that the “Rif” air defense system was based on the older “Strela-10” system. It retains the MTLB chassis, the launcher’s swivel mechanism, and the operator’s station from the original system.
It is reported that the launcher is designed to carry four missiles in transport-launch containers, with an optical sighting station located in the center.
The publication reported that it consists of a laser rangefinder, visual and thermal imaging channels, as well as a laser-guided missile control system.
It is specified that this air defense system uses RK-10 missiles, which feature a “laser path” guidance system, whereby the targeting station guides the missile to the target within a structured laser field.
As analysts note, similar guidance systems are used in the Swedish RB-70 air defense system, the British Stormer, and the latest RapidRanger systems.
A report by “Suspilne” showed the “Rif” air defense system engaging a Russian drone. It is noted that a range of 4–5 km is not the maximum for the RK-10, as it has been claimed to be capable of destroying targets at distances of up to 10 km.
Analysts noted that the video reveals the unit is also equipped with the “Strela-10” air defense system, though in the report it is shown armed with only two missiles. It is noted that the “Rif” air defense system is shown with a full complement of missiles.
“That is precisely why the transition and direct conversion from the ‘Strela-10’ to the ‘Rif’ is of key importance, as the issue of where to obtain missiles for Soviet-era air defense systems is extremely complex,” the publication explains.
This is reported by Defense Express.
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