Russia Deploys New Pantsir-SMD Missile Systems

The Russian military has started receiving the newly developed Pantsir-SMD short-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems.

This is according to an interview published today by Krasnaya Zvezda, the official newspaper of the Russian Ministry of Defense.

Lieutenant General Alexander Maksimtsev, First Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Aerospace Forces, confirmed that the systems are being delivered by High-Precision Systems Holding, part of the Rostec State Corporation.

“In order to increase the capabilities to defend administrative and political centers, the most important facilities and regions of the country, troop groups and rear facilities from massive attacks by enemy air attack vehicles, the troops are actively receiving new Pantsir-SMD anti-aircraft missile systems,” Maksimtsev stated.

The Pantsir-SMD introduces modular launcher architecture with increased missile capacity. It can carry up to 48 mini-missiles, designed to engage a range of low-altitude threats such as drones and cruise missiles. These smaller missiles are housed in quad-packs, replacing the space typically occupied by standard missiles and allowing quick reconfiguration based on mission needs.

The export version, Pantsir-SMD-E, made its international debut at IDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi, following an earlier appearance at Russia’s Army-2024 expo. The system targets foreign clients seeking enhanced short-range air defense solutions amid increasing drone threats.

The Pantsir-SMD-E includes a redesigned fire control system featuring a surveillance radar, multifunctional radar, and electro-optical targeting system. Unlike earlier Pantsir models, the Pantsir-SMD-E lacks onboard 30 mm cannons, relying solely on missile-based interception.

Each system is divided into a static combat module and an RLS-0-E surveillance radar. The radar can support up to four modules simultaneously. These modules are connected via fiber-optic cables and include an auxiliary power unit for independent operation. Operators manage the modules remotely from up to 500 meters away using a portable control interface.

Each module can engage four aerial targets simultaneously, launching up to four missiles in a single engagement.

Mini-missiles now in production

On June 23, Rostec announced that deliveries of mini-missiles had begun under the state defense order. The new munition, designated TKB-1055, is designed for counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) operations.

“The new mini-missiles allow to significantly increase the ammunition load of the Pantsir — up to 48 rounds,” said Bekkhan Ozdoyev, Industrial Director of Rostec’s Armament Cluster. “As a result, the system can intercept a larger number of air targets, such as drones.”

Reloading times remain unchanged due to the use of pre-loaded containers. Operators can mix conventional and mini-missiles based on operational requirements.