Russia to deploy Buk missile systems in occupied Crimea

The Russian Navy is going to deploy Buk anti-aircraft missile systems in occupied Crimea.

As reported by Censor.NET citing Russia's Izvestia newspaper, the systems are intended to protect ships and submarines of the Black Sea Fleet from aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles.

According to the Black Sea Fleet headquarters, the decision to deploy Buks in Crimea has already been taken. The new systems will come into service with the 1096th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment stationed in Sevastopol. At first, the unit will receive Buk-M2 systems and, in a while, more advanced Buk-M3 systems. The exact date of the rearmament remains unknown.

Buk-M2 is capable of hitting planes and drones within 3 to 45 km range and maximum altitude 25 km.