The Russian air defense system has once again successfully intercepted the UK-supplied Storm
Shadow missile in Ukraine. Fresh photos circulating online depict the fragment of
this missile falling in an undisclosed location within the Zaporizhia region.
Given its low flight profile and the incorporation of radar-absorbing materials in its design,
intercepting this type of ammunition is indeed not an easy task. However, the growing number of
online images featuring downed Storm Shadow implies that Moscow has been progressively
adjusting their tactics to counter such attacks. According to reports released by Moscow officials,
Russian forces have intercepted and destroyed no less than 29 Storm Shadow missiles since May 2023.
The primary system Russia uses to neutralize these missiles is
said to be the S-400 anti-aircraft weapon system. In today’s episode,
we will delve deeper into this system. But first, let’s briefly recall the Storm
Shadow’s feature that was once hailed as having the capacity to annihilate Russia.
[Storm Shadow’s Feature] Storm Shadow is a “fire-and-forget” cruise
missile crafted by European MBDA missile systems. This missile has been modified before being sent
to Ukraine, enabling it to be easily operated from the existing Ukrainian aircraft fleet without
additional adjustment. Equipped with GPS, terrain mapping, and other sensors, the missile precisely
delivers a 990lb two-stage ‘Bomb Royal Ordnance Augmented Charge’ or BROACH warhead to its target.
Boasting an impressive top speed of 620 mph, this 2,900lb ammunition has a range
surpassing 155 miles, which is three times longer than the US-supplied HIMARS missiles
that have also been deployed by Kyiv. This extended range allows Ukrainian pilots to
conduct operations from safer distances to reduce their proximity to the front lines.
Storm Shadow is specifically designed to maintain a low flight profile after
launch to evade detection. Priced at around US$3.19 million per unit,
this missile is typically employed against high-value targets and has
previously been used by British and French air forces in the Gulf, Iraq, and Libya.
[Russia’s S-400 Missile System]
Now, let’s turn our full attention to the main lead of the episode, the S-400 Triumf!
Widely known as the SA-21 Growler in NATO reporting name, the S-400 Triumf
has a rich historical development that highlights Russia’s commitment to countering aerial threats.
The roots of its story can be traced back to the Cold War period when the
Soviet Union embarked on the mission of developing formidable air defense systems.
One of the predecessors, the S-200 Vega system,
was widely used by the Soviet forces to engage various airborne risks.
As time progressed, the Soviet Union introduced the S-300 family of air defense systems,
representing a significant leap in capabilities. The initial variant of this family incorporated
advanced radar systems and surface-to-air missiles with improved range and accuracy.
Further enhancements were made in subsequent iterations,
such as the S-300V and S-300PMU, to improve the system's ability in fighting the targets.
Recognizing the evolving threats, the Russian military conceptualized the need for an
advanced air defense system in the late 1990s, leading to the development of the S-400 Triumf.
The objective was clear: to significantly bolster the country's air defense capabilities.
Initially joined the service in 2007, the S-400 system consists of four primary components:
the 30K6E battle management system, which includes a command post and acquisition radar; six Fire
Units with twelve transporter-erector-launchers; a range of surface-to-air missiles;
and the 30Ts6E logistical support system for missile storage and equipment maintenance.
The s-400 Triumf presents a significant upgrade in performance and capabilities
compared to earlier S-300 models. Its key
technological advancements involve:
#1. Extended Engagement Range With the ability to engage targets
up to 250 miles away at up to six times the speed of sound and altitudes of up to 19 miles,
it offers an extensive coverage area, allowing for the protection of vast airspace.
The longer range also ensures that potential threats can be intercepted before reaching
their intended targets, providing a significant advantage in defending against aerial attacks.
#2. Multiple Missile Types
The system is equipped with four missile types optimized for engaging different targets. It
includes long-range missiles capable of intercepting aircraft, ballistic missiles,
and even satellites. Additionally, it employs shorter-range missiles designed specifically
for engaging cruise missiles and other threats at closer distances. The utilization of multiple
missile types enhances the system's versatility and adaptability to various combat scenarios.
#3. Advanced Radar Systems
The S-400 Triumf utilizes the 91N6E target acquisition radar and the 92N6E fire control
radar, which provide exceptional detection and tracking capabilities.
These radars can simultaneously track multiple targets with precision,
even in complex and cluttered environments. The advanced radar systems enable rapid
target identification and facilitate accurate engagement, maximizing the system's effectiveness.
#4. Integrated Command and Control The S-400 Triumf boasts a sophisticated
command and control infrastructure that integrates all its components seamlessly.
This integration allows for real-time data sharing and coordination among radars, launchers,
and command centers. The centralized command and control system enhances situational awareness,
enabling quick decision-making and efficient utilization of resources.
The integrated nature of the system strengthens its overall effectiveness and responsiveness.
#5.
Simultaneous Engagement of Multiple Targets To counter the increasing use of drones and
saturation tactics, the S-400 has the capability to engage up to 80 targets
and 160 guided missiles simultaneously. The system can also track and fight several airborne threats,
including aircraft, ballistic and cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles,
all at the same time. This multi-target engagement capability significantly enhances the system's
defensive capacity, making it highly effective in countering complex and coordinated attacks.
----------------------------- The S-400 Triumf's advanced capabilities
have rapidly gained global recognition. Over the past decade, the Kremlin has
achieved notable success by securing numerous significant export contracts for the S-400.
These contracts have attracted high-profile customers such as China, Turkey, and India.
Despite economic sanctions imposed by the United States on countries purchasing the system,
many world powers have still shown interest in acquiring this anti-aircraft missile platform.
Countries like Iraq, Egypt, Vietnam, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia are among those
that have expressed their interest in procuring the system in recent years.
The exact cost of the S-400 Triumf varies depending on several factors, including
the configuration, additional equipment, and the terms of the contract. However,
a general estimate price is reported to be around $400 million to $500 million USD per regiment.
There is no doubt that the Ukraine invasion has become an unbeatable testing ground for
the world's weapons industry, including for developers of missiles like the Storm Shadow.
What insights has the S-400 Triumf offered to the world so far? Share
your thoughts in the comment section below!