Ukrainian Flamingo missile: Experts named two key disadvantages of the system
However, as reported by Defense Express analysts, some design features of the rocket cannot be attributed to its advantages. First, for the sake of simplifying the design, the rocket has received a direct unknown wing and abandonment of the transport and public container, which requires long pre-start preparation and reduces the prompt use. Secondly, the large dimensions and the need to install the engine with a thrust 20-23 kN make the FP-5 noticeable for modern radar.
The rocket is not equipped with technologies for reducing the radar signature, which facilitates its detection of fighters. The FP-5 parameters can be compared to US MGM-1 Matador and MGM-13 Mace Mace of the middle of the XX century. Its run weight is 6 tons, the wingspan-6 meters, which can be compared with the training plane L-39 "Albatros" (4700 kg and 9. 5 meters). For comparison, Mgm-13 Mace weighed 8. 5 tons at a distance of up to 2400 km.
To ensure a flight range, a rocket requires an engine of training aircraft and small business jet. Honeywell Tfe731 (22. 2 kN), Rolls-Royce Adour (22 kN) and Ukrainian AI-322 (24. 5 kN) are considered as analogues. Despite the large size of the power plant, the issue of production is solved by the mass production of such engines, which were produced by thousands and have a sufficient resource for flight up to four hours.
At the same time, despite the vulnerability to modern radars, FP-5 is able to use a low-high flight profile with a relief of relief. In the context of the Russo-Ukrainian War, analysts say that Russian air defense has previously missed large Tu-141 "Strizh", close in weight and size to a new rocket.