S-400 Missile System
Russia's Premier Air Defense Technology - Capabilities, Range, and Global Significance
The S-400 Triumf (NATO reporting name: SA-21 Growler) is Russia's most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile system. Developed by Almaz-Antey, this system represents a significant leap in air defense technology, capable of engaging a wide range of aerial threats including aircraft, UAVs, and ballistic and cruise missiles.
Technical Capabilities
The S-400 system integrates a networked suite of radars, command centers, and multiple missile types to create a layered defense system:
Maximum Range
Against large aircraft targets
Altitude Coverage
Effective ceiling
Targets Engaged
Simultaneously
Missile Velocity
Hypersonic capability
Radar Systems
The S-400 incorporates multiple radar systems including the 91N6E panoramic surveillance radar with 600 km range, and the 92N6E engagement radar. These systems work together to detect, track, and engage targets at different ranges and altitudes.
Missile Variants
The system utilizes four primary missile types to create a layered defense:
40N6E (Very Long Range)
Range: 380-400 km • Targets: AWACS, tankers, and other high-value assets
48N6E3 (Long Range)
Range: 250 km • Targets: strategic bombers, fighter aircraft
9M96E2 (Medium Range)
Range: 120 km • Targets: tactical aircraft, cruise missiles
9M96E (Short Range)
Range: 40 km • Targets: precision-guided munitions, UAVs
Strategic Importance
The S-400 has become a significant factor in global military balances and international relations:
- Deployed to protect critical Russian infrastructure including Moscow and important military bases
- Exported to several countries despite political pressure and sanctions threats
- Represents a technological challenge to NATO air superiority doctrines
- Integrated with other air defense systems to create multi-layered protection
Electronic Warfare Capabilities
Beyond missile interception, the S-400 incorporates sophisticated electronic countermeasures to disrupt enemy communications, radar, and targeting systems, making it a comprehensive electronic warfare platform.
Global Deployment
As of 2025, the S-400 has been deployed or sold to numerous countries including:
- Russia (over 50 battalions)
- China (6 battalions)
- India (5 battalions)
- Turkey (2 battalions)
- Saudi Arabia (contracted)
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