R27

The R-27, also known by its NATO reporting name AA-10 Alamo, is a family of medium-range air-to-air missiles developed by the Soviet Vympel design bureau. The missiles were designed for use against enemy aircraft at medium ranges and on a variety of fighter aircraft. The R-27 was introduced in the 1980s and was deployed on several Soviet and allied platforms, including versions of the Su-27 and MiG-29, as well as export variants.

The R-27 family includes several variants with different guidance systems. The R-27R is radar-guided, using semi-active radar homing, while the R-27T is infrared-homing (heat-seeking). Extended-range versions, such as the R-27ER and R-27ET, provide increased range and performance. Over time, the family received improvements in propulsion, seekers, and compatibility with upgraded fire-control systems, and it has seen various modernization programs.

Operationally, the R-27 was widely exported and used by numerous countries aligned with or purchasing from the Soviet Union. Although many operators have phased the missile out in favor of more modern designs, variants of the R-27 remained in service in some air forces into the 21st century, including upgraded configurations. The R-27 is regarded as a foundational member of post-1970s Soviet air-to-air missile development and a precursor to later systems such as the R-77.

See also: other missiles in the R-27 family and related Soviet-era air-to-air missile developments.