Scudd Missile Launching Pad

​The Scud missile is a series of tactical ballistic missiles developed by the Soviet Union during the Cold War, officially designated as the R-11 and R-17 Elbrus. These missiles have been widely exported and have seen extensive use in various conflicts. A critical component of the Scud missile system is its mobile launching platform, which provides the flexibility and mobility essential for tactical operations.

Mobile Launch Platform:

The primary launch vehicle for the Scud missile is the 9P117 Transporter-Erector-Launcher (TEL), based on the MAZ-543 heavy-duty truck chassis. This 8x8 wheeled vehicle is specifically designed to transport, erect, and launch the Scud missile, offering significant strategic advantages due to its mobility.​

Technical Details:

• Chassis and Mobility:

  • Configuration: 8x8 all-wheel drive, providing enhanced off-road capability.​

  • Dimensions: Approximately 13 meters in length and 3 meters in width.​

  • Engine: Equipped with a centrally located diesel engine, delivering sufficient power for maneuvering across diverse terrains.​

  • Speed: Capable of reaching speeds up to 45 km/h (28 mph), facilitating rapid deployment and repositioning.​

• Missile Support and Launch Mechanism:

  • Missile Compatibility: Designed to carry and launch various Scud missile variants, including Scud-B, Scud-C, and Scud-D.​

  • Erection System: Hydraulic mechanisms enable the missile to be raised from a horizontal transport position to a vertical launch position.​

  • Stabilization: Outriggers or recoil legs are deployed to stabilize the vehicle during launch, ensuring accuracy and safety.​

• Crew and Operations:

  • Crew Capacity: Accommodates a crew of three to five personnel, responsible for driving, missile handling, and launch operations.​

  • Launch Preparation Time: The system requires approximately one hour to complete the launch sequence, including setup and missile checks.​

  • Guidance System: Utilizes an inertial guidance system, with accuracy varying between 450 meters to 3 kilometers Circular Error Probable (CEP), depending on the missile variant.

Applications and Strategic Use:

The mobility of the Scud missile launching platform allows for rapid deployment, launch, and relocation, making it challenging for opposing forces to detect and neutralize. This capability has been leveraged in various conflicts, including the Yom Kippur War, the Iran-Iraq War, and the Gulf War, where Scud missiles were used to target enemy positions, infrastructure, and civilian areas.​

Technical Specifications Table:

The Scud missile launching platform exemplifies the integration of mobility and firepower, providing strategic flexibility in missile deployment. Its design reflects a balance between operational readiness and the logistical demands of missile transportation and launching in diverse combat scenarios.