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SA-2 Guideline Missile
Developed and made in the Soviet Union, the SA-2 has been used more widely than any other air defense missile in the world. In the Soviet Union, it was called the Dvina; in the West it was known by its NATO code name, SA-2 Guideline (SA meaning surface-to-air). The SA-2 became operational in 1959 and was acquired by all Soviet client states. In 1960, an SA-2 downed the American U2 spy plane piloted by Francis Gary Powers.
The SA-2 has a solid-fuel booster and a liquid-fuel second stage. Many countries made their own versions of the missile. This one, meant for export, is mounted on a transporter and required a separate launcher. SA-2's are still in use today. |