Defending Putin's Empire: Russia's Air Defence System

The Soviet Union invested heavily in its air defense systems during the Cold War, resulting in Russia possessing the most advanced air and ballistic missile defense systems in the world. These systems follow a layered multi-level approach, providing in-depth coverage from any aerial or ballistic missile attack. The highest level of these defensive networks uses long-range systems providing air defense umbrellas potentially up to 500+ km, while the second level includes medium-range systems like the S-350 and Buk variants. The third level presents mobile short-range systems intended to provide extra protection for the long-range systems. Russia is leading the way in counter-stealth detection and interception and countering future hypersonic missile threats.

Format: Hardback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 04 September 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

During the Cold War, the Soviet Union invested heavily in its air defense systems, leading to Russia possessing the most advanced air and ballistic missile defense systems in the world. Russian air defense systems are highly proliferated and are currently in use by many countries. Since the end of the Cold War and the breakup of the USSR, it has become increasingly possible to study Russian air defense, but Russia remains a closed book on defense-related subjects. While some information circulates in the media, air defense systems remain subject to speculation.

Air and ballistic missile defense programs in the Soviet Union and Russia have a long history. Soviet engineers began working on these programs in the 1950s, and by 1960, they had built the first successful systems capable of intercepting enemy aircraft and intermediate-range ballistic missiles.

Current Russian air defense doctrine follows a layered multi-level approach, providing in-depth coverage from any aerial or ballistic missile attack. This layered system allows Russian air defense forces to create zones that are difficult to penetrate. The highest level of these defensive networks utilizes long-range systems, providing air defense umbrellas potentially up to 500+ kilometers.

The second level includes medium-range systems like the S-350 and Buk variants, infamous for downing Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 over the Ukraine in 2014. These medium-range systems are intended to provide air defense zones covered by long-range systems but are more cost-effective within this envelope.

The third level presents mobile short-range systems designed to provide extra protection for long-range systems and stationary objects. These systems, including the Pantsir-S and Buk-M2E, are highly mobile and can be deployed quickly to respond to threats.

In conclusion, the Soviet Union's investment in air defense systems during the Cold War has paid off, with Russia possessing the most advanced air and ballistic missile defense systems in the world. These systems are highly proliferated and are in use by many countries. While Russia remains a closed book on defense-related subjects, ongoing research and analysis provide valuable insights into Russian air defense capabilities.

Weight: 842g
Dimension: 181 x 253 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399043076