# VCS-01 Trường Sơn

The VCS-01, marketed as the Trường Sơn (Annamite Range) and also known as VCM-B, is a Vietnamese mobile, anti-ship missile-based coastal defense system developed to succeed the Soviet-designed, Cold War-era 4K51 Rubezh. The system integrates multiple components, including self-propelled launcher vehicles, target acquisition radars, command and control vehicles, transport and loading units, and technical inspection vehicles. It is designed to enhance Vietnam’s coastal defense capabilities, particularly in the South China Sea. It is primarily operated by the coastal missile and artillery forces of the Vietnam People's Navy.

## Design and Components

The VCS-01 system includes multiple components mounted on truck chassis to ensure high mobility and operational flexibility. At the heart of the system is the VLV-01 Launcher Vehicle, which is based on the KAMAZ-6560 8×8 chassis. Each launcher vehicle can carry up to eight missiles, arranged in two pods with four missiles per pod. The VLV-01 can be operational within ten minutes of arrival at a deployment site, offering rapid response capability.
The VTRV-01 Transporter and Reloader Vehicle is another essential component, also built on the KAMAZ-6560 chassis. It is responsible for transporting spare missiles and reloading the launcher vehicle using a hydraulic crane. The VTRV-01 can carry up to eight missile canisters and reload a full pod of four missiles in under 40 minutes, ensuring efficient resupply during operations.
The VTIV-01 Technical Inspection Vehicle is used to assess the readiness and technical status of the missiles. Mounted on the KAMAZ-5350 6×6 chassis, it is capable of conducting inspections both when the missiles are inside their canisters and when removed. This feature ensures that the missiles are maintained at peak operational readiness.
Target acquisition and tracking are handled by the VTAR-1 Target Acquisition Radar Vehicle, which is mounted on a KAMAZ-6560 chassis. Equipped with a medium-range radar that can be elevated on a hydraulic mast, the VTAR-1 detects and tracks surface targets at sea. It also features electronic counter-countermeasure capabilities to ensure reliable operation in contested environments. The radar can be deployed and operational within 25 minutes of arrival.
Finally, the VCPV-01 Command and Processing Vehicle provides centralized command and control for the system. Built on the KAMAZ-5350 6×6 chassis, it houses advanced C4ISR equipment for seamless communication and coordination between all components. The VCPV-01 ensures that the entire VCS-01 system can function efficiently, whether in centralized or standalone combat scenarios.

## Missile

The primary missile used by the VCS-01 is the VSM-01A, also known as "Song Hong," which replaces the P-15 Termit missile. This missile is part of the VCM-01 missile family, modeled on the Russian Kh-35E but with several modifications. These include a lighter airframe, redesigned air intake, and updated avionics. The VSM-01A missile has a range of 80 kilometers, doubling that of the P-15 Termit. It operates at high subsonic speeds and features advanced guidance systems for improved targeting precision.

## Development

The VCS-01 system was developed by a collaboration between the Viettel (and various subsidiaries), and the Z189 Shipyard. Prototypes were tested in 2018 in the Quỳnh Lưu and Tiền Hải districts. The system officially entered service in April 2024 under Brigade 679 of the 1st Regional Command. Testing also included trials on a modified Shershen-class torpedo boat, demonstrating the missile's versatility.

## Operational History

The VCS-01 system aligns with Vietnam’s anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) strategy, aimed at securing maritime interests in the South China Sea. This strategy includes the use of Kilo-class submarines, Su-30MK2 aircraft, and the domestically produced VCM-01 missile system. At its debut during a defense expo, the VCS-01 system showcased compatibility with various platforms, including missile boats, frigates, and potentially aircraft.

## Variants

VCS-01A - Standard coastal defense variant.

## Operators

Vietnam
* Vietnam People's Navy - Developed and operated by the Vietnam People's Navy under the coastal missile & artillery forces.