How Ukraine’s FrankenSAM Revolutionizes USAF Base Security

More details have surfaced about the FrankenSAM, a cutting-edge air defense system developed rapidly by the United States for Ukraine. Now, there’s talk of the U.S. Air Force adopting it to protect air bases. This new system could address the growing vulnerability of airfields and the general lack of short-range air defense systems (SHORADS).

FrankenSAM Development and Capabilities

The FrankenSAM was born from a critical need for robust ground-based air defense in Ukraine after Russia’s invasion. The U.S. Air Force, in the fiscal year 2023, sought a mobile, affordable ground-based air defense system.

This led to the creation of the FrankenSAM, which integrates existing air-to-air missiles into a flexible, open-architecture system. Three versions are known so far, each incorporating different types of missiles, including the radar-guided RIM-7 Sea Sparrow and the heat-seeking AIM-9M Sidewinder.

The FrankenSAM stands out because it uses surplus munitions that are plentiful and cost-effective. New missiles can be expensive and slow to produce, but the FrankenSAM leverages existing stockpiles. This system also includes communication towers, infrared camera systems, early warning radar trailers, and small communication kits, creating a networked air defense architecture.

Designed, built, and tested within eight months, the FrankenSAM was deployed in Ukraine by the end of 2023. It demonstrated its capabilities quickly, impacting the battlefield within two months of arrival and less than two weeks of operator training.

Potential for U.S. Air Force Use

The success of FrankenSAM in Ukraine has sparked interest among U.S. lawmakers. They propose that the U.S. Air Force consider adapting this system for air base defense.

The system’s flexibility and ability to use various missile types make it an attractive option. A truck-mounted SHORADS solution would be particularly useful for airfield defense, as it’s easy to transport and can be moved quickly to new locations, making it harder to target.

A truck-based system is ideal for protecting against drones and cruise missiles, which have become significant threats. These systems could be stationed in semi-permanent locations or even at sea, adding versatility to the defense strategy. The adaptability of the FrankenSAM system to different environments and its potential for quick deployment make it a valuable asset.

The Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) has called for a briefing from the Secretary of Defense by March 31, 2025, to explore the use of FrankenSAM by the U.S. Air Force. This briefing will cover how the system has been used in Ukraine, the additional resources needed for its expansion, and its potential application in other theaters.

Addressing SHORADS Deficiencies

The U.S. military has a notable SHORADS deficit, a concern highlighted by various defense experts for years. The FrankenSAM could provide a quick and effective solution to this problem. The Air Force’s need to operate in contested environments far from home requires reliable air base defenses. Airfields will likely face threats from enemy airstrikes, missiles, and drones, making systems like FrankenSAM essential.

The need for air base defenses extends beyond the Pacific. U.S. air bases, including those in the continental United States, are also vulnerable to drone attacks. The FrankenSAM could meet the growing demand for defenses against lower-level threats at air bases and critical infrastructure worldwide.

In summary, the FrankenSAM, initially developed for Ukraine to address its need for more surface-to-air missiles, could provide critical short-range air defense capabilities for the U.S. Air Force and other operators. Its rapid development, flexibility, and effectiveness make it a promising solution for modern air defense needs.

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