The US destroyed a Buk-M2E air defense system in the Venezuelan capital.
The Russian-made Buk-M2E air defense system protecting the La Carlota base in Caracas has been destroyed amid escalating military tensions between the US and Venezuela.
On January 3rd, US forces destroyed a Russian-made Buk-M2E 9K317E air defense system deployed to protect the La Carlota air base in Caracas, Venezuela. This incident occurred amidst significantly heightened military tensions in the region.
Technical specifications and combat capabilities of the Buk-M2E
According to reports from the Telegram channel of the Turkish edition of Clash Report, the destroyed system belonged to the Venezuelan military. Venezuela currently possesses at least two Buk-M2E systems, with the most recent delivery occurring this fall. Each system is equipped with four 9M317E missiles, allowing for simultaneous interception of up to 24 targets at a maximum range of 20 km.
The Buk-M2E version currently operated by Venezuela includes key components such as the 9C510E command post, the 9C18M1E radar, and the 9A316E launcher. The entire system is mounted on a Belarusian-made MZKT-69221 chassis with a 6x6 wheeled configuration, enhancing its mobility in modern air defense operations.
The context of military deployment in Venezuela
Prior to the destruction, Venezuela had been actively deploying numerous strategic air defense systems at key locations. This move was aimed at countering show of force by US bombers off the Venezuelan coast. Besides the capital Caracas, the military also reinforced its air defense systems in the northern coastal city of La Guaira.
Sources from Militarnyi confirm that the destruction of the Buk-M2E system is part of a complex series of military developments between the two sides. The Buk-M2E system plays a crucial role in Venezuela's medium-range air defense network, and the loss of this equipment could affect the country's ability to protect its strategic air bases.
