Arena-M: Russia's active defense system evolution amid conflict
The Russian company Rosoboronexport demonstrated the operation of the Arena-M system launcher against a missile attacking from the upper hemisphere. We explain what this means.
In response to the widespread use of anti-tank guided missiles and drones by Ukrainians, the Russians have suffered significant losses in tanks, with reports indicating nearly 4,000 units identified with photographs. This suggests that the actual number of destroyed tanks might be even higher.
In response, the Russians began equipping some new or refreshed tanks with a modified Arena-M active protection system. A video from a few years ago showed the system intercepting a direct-flying RPG-7 grenade, and now a new video demonstrates its resistance to upper hemisphere missile attacks.
Significant progress by the Russians
It is worth noting that this represents significant progress for the Russians, but the interception seems to have been carried out at an angle smaller than 60 degrees. It is important to note that the FGM-148 Javelin system missiles can hit a target almost vertically, especially at shorter distances, which Arena-M might struggle with if the test shows the system's maximum capabilities. Moreover, in response to Arena-M's features, Javelin or Spike manufacturers could adjust the software so that the missile dives at a steeper angle.
On the other hand, it will be effective against older OTA (overfly top attack) type missiles, which fly directly towards the target and detonate above it. This applies to missiles such as TOW-2B, RBS-56B BILL 2, or NLAW.
Arena-M system - development of an ambitious idea
The Arena-M active protection system shown during the Army-2024 fair is an evolution of the Arena system, which has been in development since the 1980s. It is worth highlighting that the Russians were initially pioneers in the field of active protection systems.
An example of this is the 1030M Drozd system, developed in the 1970s, which was seen on the experimental T-80UM2 tank. However, due to technological and financial challenges in the USSR, the realization of this concept was halted.
Despite this, it became an inspiration for designers from Israel, leading to the development of today’s most effective and popular active protection system, the Rafael Trophy. Meanwhile, in Russia, the Arena system was developed, intended to consist of a radar and countermeasure launcher.
Arena-M - the new version considers modern threats
The new version, Arena-M, is likely a modification of the older solution. The previous version could only detect objects moving at speeds above 70 metres per second and ignored missiles attacking from above, like TOW-2B or FGM-148 Javelin, which, as demonstrated, has improved to some degree.
Moreover, the Arena-M is lighter than its predecessor and may have the ability to shoot down FPV drones. However, it must be remembered that the system must have a filter that differentiates between dangerous objects and, for example, birds. There is a possibility that drone pilots, through trial and error, might find a way to bypass the system, such as by approaching more slowly.
Additionally, theoretically, the Russians faced a key challenge associated with using Arena and similar systems: the risk to their own soldiers near the tank. However, given the current apparent lack of regard for soldiers' safety, there is doubt whether any measures have been taken in this regard.
