The first 10 Pantsir S1 (SA-22 Greyhound) antiaircraft surface-to-air missile systems entered service with the Russian Air Force, a Defense Ministry spokesman said on Thursday.

Pantsir-S1 is a short-to-medium range combined surface-to-air missile and antiaircraft artillery system manufactured by the Tula-based Instrument Making Design Bureau (KPB).

Lt. Col. Vladimir Drik said the new system will enhance the effectiveness, stability and survivability of national air defenses.

It is designed to protect point and area targets and carries up to 12 two-stage solid-fuel surface-to-air missiles in sealed ready-to-launch containers.

The system also has two dual 30 mm automatic cannons that can engage targets up to 4 km away.

MOSCOW, March 18 (RIA Novosti)