The Russian S-500 Prometheus anti-aircraft missile system (SAM) is"an impressive system that should alarm NATO members." This opinion was expressed by Maya Carlin, an analyst at the Center for Security Policy and author of The National Interest.
At the end of December 2024, it became known about the creation of the first S-500 regiment. Western media claim that it is used to protect the Crimean Bridge.
S-500 "Prometheus" was created on the basis of the Soviet S-200 Angara long-range air defense system. The air defense system was put into service in the 60s. The next generation of air defense systems is the S-300 and S-400.
Maya Carlin emphasized that the S-500 is"even more deadly" compared to its predecessor. The complex was developed to destroy fifth-generation aircraft, including the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II.
The S-500 is equipped with 40N6M and 77N6 missiles. According to the Center for International and Strategic Studies, the range of the 40N6M reaches 400 km, and the 77N6 reaches 600 km, Carlin added.
Moscow tends to exaggerate the power of its military assets. But, regardless of the exact characteristics and capabilities of the S-500, it is undoubtedly an impressive system.