Ali_Baba
VIP Member
View attachment 132927
Egypt replaced 65 SA-2 batteries. Initially, Egypt upgraded 40 batteries, then withdrew. It is believed that Egypt operates only 16 batteries. The replacement process was carried out with the HQ-18 system. Egypt previously obtained six batteries. This system is considered equivalent to the Russian S-300V system, perhaps a continuation of the eight S-300VM batteries. Regarding the HQ-9BE system, Egypt purchased six batteries for $1.2 billion, including 1,152 missiles and systems. Egypt has a pipeline to acquire anti-missile systems. Only the S-400 and THAAD systems were available. The HQ-9BE system may be an option, but with special specifications. Even the S-300VM system, which Egypt acquired in 2015, required modifications. Upon delivery, deliveries were halted for other modifications. Typically, with Russian weapons, Egypt requests updates to Western armament levels, followed by refurbishment. Rumors are circulating that Egypt has acquired the S-350 system, which is believed to be within the standard range. The second is to upgrade and integrate with the S-300VM systems.
SOURCE FOR HQ-18
https://missiledefenseadvocacy.org/...at/china/china-anti-access-area-denial/hq-18/
Would there not have been value in keeping those SA-2 batteries to take on large Israeli UAT/drones in the future ? They still have military value ? Appreciate there is an ongoing maintenance cost, but capability that to me at least, still feels useful as people navigate the world of drones.












