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Does Belarus Create Own Cruise Missiles Aist?

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Does Belarus Create Own Cruise Missiles Aist?

Minsk seems to resolutely choose the path of militarism, too.

It is written by the Russian analytical publication Bortovoj Zhurnal (Log Book).

“There is general agreement of both Belarusian and Ukrainian experts that the Polonez (Polonaise) multiple rocket launcher system is just an intermediate stage for creation by Minsk of own tactical ballistic missile system equipped by cruise missiles made in Belarus (there is information that it will be called Aist). Indeed, the mandatory requirement for guaranteed elimination of military installations on the territory of the enemy is effective penetrating the air defence system, which is a typical mission for cruise missiles,” – the magazine writes.

Capabilities of Belarus to create modern precise missiles could cause certain doubts, especially after the announced MRLS Polonez, if it was not for some details.

“Considering too close Belarusian-Ukrainian relationships, the prospects of creation of the Belarusian cruise missile Aist become much more distinct. Back in the beginning of 2012 a Ukrainian company Motor Sich bought 60% of shares of Orsha aircraft repair plant. As it turned out, one of the conditions of the deal, among other things, was organizing mass production of gas-turbine engines. Considering the realities of the modern world, it is obvious that manufacturing of rocket engines MC-350 or MC-400 for Belarusian needs is being prepared in Orsha (or is ready by now). By the way, basing upon MC-400, in 2009 China created cruise missile CJ-10, which is very much alike Korshun, a Ukrainian equivalent. Maybe it was not accidentally that Minsk had chosen Beijing as a partner for creation of its new multiple launch rocket system – own guided missile system is looming on the horizon,” – the author of the article writes.

It is not new for Belarusian defense industry representatives to participate in a project for creation of a tactical ballistic missile system equipped by cruise missiles. Thus, at the international exhibition of defence industry IDEAS-2008 Pakistan presented a mobile launcher for Babur cruise missiles on MZKT-79292 chassis made by Minsk Wheeled Tractor Plant (MZKT). The missile itself is equipped by MC-400.

“It seems that creation of own tactical ballistic missile system equipped by cruise missiles is just a matter of time. It is another question what has made Belarus to spur its rocket program amid the economic hardships? Most likely, the major role belongs to the growing tensions in the region, and disinclination of Moscow to deliver modern armaments like ZRK-400 or Iskander short-range ballistic missile systems to Minsk,” – the report reads.

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