Ukrainian navy's VAMPIRE system downs Russian missile

On January 25, the Ukrainian Navy released footage showing its crew successfully intercepting a Russian Kh-59 air-to-surface guided missile, as reported by Defense Express. The missile, launched by a Russian Su-57 fighter jet, was intended to destroy civilian infrastructure at the Pivdennyi trading port. However, it was destroyed using the VAMPIRE system. According to the Ukrainians, this footage is the first public documentation of the system's use against such a target.

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

The VAMPIRE rocket system is a lightweight and mobile weapon developed by the American company L3Harris, designed for combating drones and ground targets. Its main feature is its modular construction, allowing for quick assembly on various platforms, including civilian and military off-road vehicles. The system uses laser-guided rockets, providing precise targeting even in challenging combat conditions.

Its armament primarily includes APKWS (Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System) rockets, which are modified versions of standard 70 mm rockets equipped with laser guidance systems. This configuration allows for the effective elimination of both enemy drones 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.