Russia is completing the formation of the first regiment with the new S-500 SAM system for strategic anti-missile defense (AMD), the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces announced. S-500 missiles can intercept targets at a range of 600 kilometers, surpassing the American THAAD and Patriot systems. This is according to Bulgarian Military.
Unlike the S-400 with 4 missiles in the launcher, the S-500 SAM systems are more compact (2 missiles). These missiles are specifically designed to engage high-altitude, high-speed targets. Whether it's hypersonic gliding vehicles, intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), or satellites in low Earth orbit.
The S-500 does not replace the S-400 and S-300, but can work with them in conjunction. This approach guarantees Russia has no gaps in its overall air defense system.
According to Bulgarian Military, the S-500 SAM systems have been spotted in the Arctic and Crimea. The deployment of these systems signifies Russia's readiness to defend its airspace.
The S-500 is a technological marvel, but the complex is not immune to cyber threats. Advanced air defense systems are only as reliable as they are protected from hacking. The S-500, with its complex radars and missile guidance systems, is a target for hackers.
As Bulgarian Military notes, Russia has invested significant resources in ensuring the security of its SAM systems. However, attacks on anti-aircraft missile systems are inevitable.
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