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Russian Tor and Smerch Systems Appear in Libya: Who Might Be Supplying Haftar’s Arsenal?
The Libyan Arab Armed Forces (LAAF) publicly displayed previously unrecorded Russian-made Tor-M1-2U air defense systems and BM-30 Smerch rocket launchers during a televised military parade on May 26 at the new Military City south of Benghazi. This was reported by open-source defense intelligence team Janes on June 12.
Russia’s supply chain delivering two Tor-M1-2U short-range air-defense systems and two BM-30 Smerch multiple rocket launchers to Khalifa Haftar’s Libyan Arab Armed Forces remains vague, with analysts noting that the United Arab Emirates is frequently cited as potential intermediary, though no definitive proof has emerged.
The Tor-M1-2U, readily identified by its back-opening missile hatches and absence of auxiliary power units found on newer variants, is exported only to Russian forces, underscoring Moscow’s central role in its provision. By contrast, BM-30 Smerch launchers have several known operators, with the UAE among the few alleged to hold a small fleet—an unconfirmed claim that has fueled speculation about Abu Dhabi’s involvement.
Additional parade highlights included three BMP-2Ms upgraded with the Berezhok fire-control module, 33GT-34039B all-terrain tracked carriers likely used for ammunition resupply, and over 120 VPK-Ural Spartak and Tigr-M armoured vehicles. While these deliveries point to an extensive arms flow into eastern Libya, the exact logistics underpinning their arrival—whether direct from Russia or via covert third-party routes—remain concealed.
Although intermediaries such as the UAE are often mentioned in open-source analyses, Defense Express cautions that Moscow typically relies on its own shadow logistics network while reserving the option to employ external conduits when operational exigencies demand. Until new intelligence surfaces, the true pathway of Russia’s most advanced systems into Haftar’s hands is likely to remain unclear.
Earlier, the LAAF’s 26 May parade at Military City south of Benghazi, where two Tor-M1 short-range air-defense systems and two BM-30 Smerch multiple rocket launchers—both Russian-made and new to LAAF service—were publicly displayed for the first time.
