Recently, Venezuela has once again become the focus of world attention in the face of threats from the US Navy. Let's take a look at what the country's military strength is like, especially its air force and air defense forces, aside from oil and the drug trade that is publicized by the US.
The main combat force of the Venezuelan Air Force is 24 Russian Su-30MKV fighters. These fighters began to be delivered in 2006, but one was crashed in 2019. Western analysts believe that there are currently 21 operational aircraft, capable of firing KH-31A anti-ship missiles with a maximum range of about 100 kilometers.
The Venezuelan Air Force also has 12 F-16A/B Block 15 OCU (Operational Capability Upgrade) fighter jets, which were introduced from the United States in the 1980s. At that time, they were among the most advanced aircraft in South America. However, after several decades of consumption, their combat capability has become extremely limited due to lack of spare parts, and only a small number can fly now. Western analysts estimate that 4-6 aircraft have flight capability.
Additionally, the Venezuelan Air Force has 12-18 K-8W trainer aircraft, mainly used as advanced trainers and light ground attack aircraft. 12 Brazilian EMB-312 Tucano primary trainers and 20 Italian SF-260 primary trainers.
The air defense forces of Venezuela are the highlight of its military strength, centered around Russian equipment, forming a three-layer air defense fire network of long, medium, and short ranges, with comprehensive strength ranking among the best in Latin America.
Air defense weapons mainly include: two battalions of S-300V long-range air defense systems (12 launch vehicles), with a maximum range of up to 200 kilometers, capable of simultaneously striking multiple targets.
Eleven battalions of S-125-2M "Talos" - 2M medium-range air defense systems (44 launch units). This is an upgraded version of the old Soviet S-125 (SA-3 Goa), modernized by Belarus, which effectively improved its anti-jamming capabilities and ability to deal with low-altitude targets, responsible for medium and low altitude defense.
Two battalions of Buk-M2E "Buk" medium-range air defense systems (10-12 launch vehicles). This air defense system has excellent mobility and resistance to saturation attacks, used to intercept medium and low altitude aircraft, cruise missiles, etc.
Three battalions of "Tor" - M1 short-range air defense systems (8-12 launch vehicles). A relatively excellent field air defense system, skilled in intercepting low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and precision-guided munitions (JDAM, etc.).
Venezuela also has an unknown number of Israeli-made "Barak" air defense systems, purchased in the early 2000s, but due to changes in international relations, the current status of these air defense systems is unclear. In addition, Venezuela has a large number of Russian "Strela" - S man-portable air defense missiles (NATO designation SA-24). This missile was purchased in 2010, with at least 1,000 sets purchased, and external assessments suggest that the available quantity is at least over 1,000 sets.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1842617563994506/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author.