Kyiv has showcased the launcher unit from its new Shershen surface-to-air missile system for the first time at the MSPO defense exhibition in Poland. The display represents the initial public reveal of the ground-based air defense platform built for Ukrainian military forces.
The public debut of the launcher unit was reported by the Centre for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies on Telegram. Exhibition organizers also presented the R-120K guided anti-aircraft missile, an interceptor created specifically for the Shershen platform. However, official performance figures and technical specifications for both the missile system and the interceptor were not disclosed at the event.
The Shershen air defense complex was developed by the Ukrainian defense engineering firm Radionix. The launcher is capable of firing air-to-air missiles belonging to the R-27 family. In addition to aircraft weapons, the ammunition load for the platform can include Western RIM-7 Sea Sparrow missiles. The physical sample displayed on the exhibition floor in Poland was equipped with four missiles representing two different operational types.
Radionix, headquartered in Kyiv, specializes in radar development, optical guidance systems, and radio-navigation upgrades for military equipment. The MSPO trade fair, held annually in Kielce, Poland, serves as a primary showcase for European military technology and defense procurement. Adapting existing air-to-air and naval surface-to-air missiles for ground launchers allows military operators to construct mobile air defense units using readily available ordnance.
Regional missile procurement and combat role updates
The presentation of the Shershen launcher coincides with other recent updates regarding regional surface-to-air missile supplies. Earlier in September, Russian arms manufacturer Kalashnikov Concern reported that it had delivered a batch of 9M333 anti-aircraft guided missiles to fulfill a state defense contract. The 9M333 missile is designed for vehicle-mounted short-range air defense platforms targeting low-flying aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones.
Counter-drone operations have remained a central focus for ground-based air defense development across the region. In June, details emerged concerning the American BRAWLR surface-to-air missile system operated by the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Following reports that Russian forces had destroyed a BRAWLR unit for the first time, it was disclosed that the American-supplied platform had been specifically engineered for anti-drone warfare.
