Kyiv: The Ukrainian General Staff reported a significant attack on Russian positions in the Kursk region during the night of November 24. In this operation, Ukrainian forces successfully destroyed the radar station of the S-400 Triumf system, one of Russia’s most advanced air defense and missile defense systems.
The loss of this radar marks a substantial setback for Russia, significantly weakening its air defense capabilities. Ukrainian officials noted that the destroyed radar had been operating in a “ground-to-ground” mode, primarily targeting stationary ground locations. However, Ukrainian sources alleged that such operations often result in strikes on civilian areas near the border.
Advanced System Under Fire
The S-400 Triumf, developed by Russia’s Almaz-Antey design bureau, is among the world’s most sophisticated air defense systems. Capable of intercepting aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, the system can engage targets moving at speeds up to 4.8 km/s. Its range varies depending on the missile type, from 40 km with 9M96 missiles to over 400 km with 40N6E missiles.
Despite its advanced design, the S-400 has demonstrated vulnerabilities in the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian forces have successfully neutralized several components of the system using modern Western weapons like MGM-140 ATACMS missiles.
Unofficial Reports of ATACMS Usage
While Ukrainian officials have not confirmed the weapon used in the attack, reports suggest that ATACMS missiles might have been deployed. According to Bulgarian Military, these long-range precision weapons have become a critical tool for Ukrainian forces in countering Russia’s air defense systems.
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Weaknesses Exposed
The war in Ukraine has exposed significant limitations of the S-400 system. Analysts note that the system struggles against targets moving on steep trajectories, diminishing its effectiveness in modern combat scenarios. Ukrainian forces’ ability to exploit these vulnerabilities has further undermined the system’s reputation as a cutting-edge defense mechanism.
The destruction of the S-400 radar in Kursk highlights the growing sophistication of Ukraine’s military operations and the challenges Russia faces in maintaining its defensive strongholds.
