
At IDEX 2025, Kalashnikov will showcase its newest advancement in short-range air defense: the Krona-E system, set to make its debut at the International Defense Exhibition in Abu Dhabi from February 17-21. This system is more than just an innovation—it represents a paradigm shift in the response to aerial threats, offering capabilities that surpass conventional defense systems in precision and speed.
In an era where drones increasingly dominate conflict zones, the Krona-E is designed to neutralize aerial threats with remarkable effectiveness. Specifically tailored to protect critical Russian assets—such as government hubs, infrastructure, and communication centers—this system provides an essential defense against the continuous risk posed by UAVs.
As reliance on unmanned systems expands, so too does their threat to vital infrastructure. The Krona-E’s precision strike capability is engineered to engage and eliminate medium-class UAVs, delivering the kind of tactical superiority that could redefine modern defense paradigms.
What distinguishes the Krona-E is its integrated, automated framework. Unlike traditional air defense systems that operate in isolated segments, the Krona-E establishes a unified defense network. Its operational model isn’t just about neutralizing immediate threats but about preemptively countering UAVs before they even pose a danger. Whether mounted on a mobile platform or deployed in a stationary setup, the system adapts dynamically, ensuring no target remains undetected.
Equipped with the 9M340 and 9M333 guided missiles, the Krona-E combines speed and intelligence, offering a highly responsive defense. These smart, high-velocity missiles track and neutralize threats with pinpoint accuracy, whether it’s a lone drone or a coordinated swarm. In real-time engagements, the Krona-E offers a rapid, overwhelming counteroffensive.
This isn’t just another air defense system—it’s a countermeasure designed to meet the future of warfare head-on. As drone capabilities evolve, the Krona-E ensures a robust defense against increasingly sophisticated threats, establishing it as a crucial element in the future landscape of air defense.
The Krona-E is part of Russia’s ongoing development of air defense technology and is built upon the TOR family of systems, known for their adaptability in various operational settings. The system’s base model utilizes the DT-30PM all-terrain vehicle, capable of operating in extreme environments, including the Arctic, providing unmatched mobility.
The missile system, an evolution of the TOR series, is designed for short-range engagement, with missiles such as the 9M330 and the upgraded 9M331 capable of intercepting threats within a 2 km radius. The TOR-M2 variant, closely related to the Krona-E, enhances the system with improved radar systems, further reducing minimum engagement distances.
The Krona-E employs an advanced radar suite that includes a multi-mode phased-array system capable of operating in harsh weather and countering electronic warfare. It can track and engage multiple targets simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive airspace security.
The system is also tailored for harsh environmental conditions, including extreme cold, with the TOR-M2DT variant designed specifically for Arctic operations. For international markets, the export version, TOR-M2E, introduces modifications such as a wheeled chassis to meet mobility demands in different terrains.
Ultimately, the Krona-E’s integration into a layered defense network, working alongside systems like the Pantsir-S1 and S-400, enhances its operational effectiveness. This layered approach ensures a flexible, resilient defense architecture capable of addressing multiple aerial threats across varying altitudes and ranges. The system’s design also incorporates electronic warfare capabilities, reflecting Russia’s emphasis on creating adaptive and resilient defense mechanisms in contested environments.
In conclusion, while the Krona-E is an emerging system, its design and technology closely mirror the proven capabilities of the TOR-M2 series. It is a versatile, short-range defense solution intended to protect vital military assets in diverse operational conditions, with particular relevance to cold-weather environments. Its adaptability and export potential underscore its strategic significance within Russia’s defense framework.