The best multi-channel air defense systems in the world: S-300PM2 is no longer the leader

Nowadays, the combat range of anti-aircraft missiles no longer guarantees victory in an aerial battle. The main problem for air defense has become massive strikes – dozens of drones, cruise missiles, and decoys simultaneously.

That is why one of the key parameters is multi-channel capability, or the ability of the complex to track and engage a large number of targets at once. "Pervyy Tekhnicheskiy" figured out which air defense systems are capable of withstanding the heaviest air attacks.

5. Patriot PAC-3 MSE (USA)

The American Patriot PAC-3 MSE can simultaneously engage approximately 8–9 targets.

Patriot PAC-3 Image source: Wikipedia

In the American concept, several Patriot batteries operate as a single organism, distributing targets among radars and launchers.

4. HQ-9B (China)

The Chinese HQ-9B can simultaneously track up to 10 targets and is considered one of the most powerful air defense systems in Asia.

HQ-9B Image source: Wikipedia

In terms of multi-channel capability, the HQ-9B has already approached modern Western systems, although it is still far from the Russian leaders.

3. S-300PM2 "Favorit" (Russia)

The Russian S-300PM2 can simultaneously engage up to 12 targets with guidance for up to 24 missiles.

S-300 Image source: Wikipedia

It was the S-300 that actually set the standard for modern long-range air defense, which many countries later began to copy.

2. SAMP/T NG (France / Italy)

The European SAMP/T NG is just beginning to enter service, but is already considered one of the most technologically advanced new-generation systems.

SAMP Image source: Wikipedia

Thanks to its digital architecture and Kronos Grand Mobile High Power radar, the system is theoretically capable of simultaneously tracking and engaging more than 40 targets.

1. S-400 "Triumf" (Russia)

The S-400 "Triumf" is the world leader among serially deployed air defense systems.

S-400 Image source: vimpel-v

Its multifunctional 92N6E radar can simultaneously engage up to 36 targets with guidance for up to 72 missiles.

Modern air defense is increasingly becoming a competition of computing systems and radars, and not just missile range.

SAMP/T NG shows where the new generation of digital systems is heading, Patriot relies on network integration, and China is gradually closing the gap.