Ukrainian navy's VAMPIRE system thwarts russian missile attack

On 25 January, the Ukrainian Navy released footage of its crew successfully intercepting a Russian Kh-59 air-to-surface guided missile, as reported by Defence Express. The rocket, launched by a Russian Su-57 fighter jet, was intended to destroy civil infrastructure at the commercial port of Pivdennyi. However, it was neutralised using the VAMPIRE system. Ukrainians claim this is the first public documentation of this system's deployment against this target type.

According to information published on the official channel of the Ukrainian Navy on the Telegram platform, a surface-to-air missile launched from a patrol boat intercepted the Kh-59 missile. Although the post did not specify the type of vessel or missile system employed, military analysts who scrutinised photos shared on social media believe the Ukrainians used the Vehicle-Agnostic Modular ISR Rocket Equipment (VAMPIRE) system, which utilised the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS).

The VAMPIRE missile system is a lightweight and mobile weapon developed by the American company L3Harris. It is designed to combat drones and ground targets. The system's key feature is its modular design, which enables quick installation on various platforms, including civilian and military field vehicles. It uses laser-guided missiles, which ensure precise target hits even in challenging combat conditions.

Its armament primarily consists of APKWS (Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System) rockets, modified versions of standard 2.75-inch missiles equipped with a laser guidance system. This configuration effectively eliminates hostile unmanned aerial vehicles and lightly armoured vehicles. VAMPIRE is distinguished by its low operating cost compared to more advanced air defence systems, making it an economical solution for protecting armed forces from modern aerial threats.