The production volume of ballistic missiles in Russia (approximately up to 1040 units per year) exceeds the number of systems for their interception in Europe (695 units). This indicates an imbalance in defense matters. This opinion was expressed by Fabian Hoffmann, a research fellow at the University of Oslo, writes Bulgarian Military.
Are the existing air defense systems in Europe capable of withstanding the growing flow of Russian weapons? Experts point to technical and strategic problems.
Europe has three key interception systems that neutralize ballistic threats: the missile line for PAC (Patriot Advanced Capability), GEM-T, and Aster 30B1/B1NT.
The Russian hypersonic missile «Kinzhal», launched from MiG-31 fighters, travels at a speed of Mach 10 and maneuvers in flight. PAC-3 MSE has shown good results during testing, but interception at such speeds has not been confirmed.
As the author of Bulgarian Military emphasizes, the European missile defense shield has a breach. Interceptor systems are located in countries such as Germany, France, Poland, and Romania, while the rest remain unprotected.
The basis of the Russian missile arsenal is the 9M723 «Iskander-M» ground-based missile system with a firing range of up to 500 km and the Kh-47M2 «Kinzhal» air-based hypersonic missile system, capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 2000 km.
The publicist noted that Russia is increasing missile production every year. He did not rule out that in 2026 their production volume would be increased.
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