Russia bolsters air defenses along Ukrainian border amid attacks
Satellite image analysis reveals that the Russians are deploying additional S-300 and S-400 air defense systems at military airports closest to the Ukrainian border. Moreover, at some of these bases, they are constructing hangars for aircraft. These efforts aim to enhance the protection of Russian aviation from potential Ukrainian drone and long-range missile attacks.
In recent months, Ukraine has systematically targeted locations in Russia. Infrastructure related to oil processing, such as ammunition depots (for example, in Toropets) and military airports, has been attacked by Ukrainian drones and long-range missiles provided by Western allies. Consequently, the Russians have decided to bolster the security of these airports.
Russians strengthen bases near Ukraine
As reported by Radio Svoboda's portal, the analysis of the latest satellite images confirms alterations at, among others, the Millerovo air base in the Rostov region and the Belbek air base in occupied Crimea. The Russians have established new positions for the S-300 and S-400 air defense systems, which were not present before the end of last year.
Furthermore, satellite images indicate that the Russians are constructing hangars. These hangars are designed to not only protect aircraft, for example, from drones, but also to complicate reconnaissance efforts by Ukrainians and their allies. Such structures have been observed at the two bases mentioned above, as well as at the Primorsko-Akhtarsk airport in the Krasnodar region.
Russians deploy the best air defense systems
In the fall of last year, the Joe Biden administration authorized Ukraine to use American weapons against targets deep in Russia. This mainly involves ATACMS ballistic missiles with a range of up to 186 miles.
Consequently, the Russians relocated some of their military aviation from airfields within the weapon's range to other bases. However, they have not entirely abandoned the facilities most threatened by Ukrainian arms. Additionally, an increasing challenge for the Russians comes not only from American missiles but also from Ukrainian drones, some of which have ranges of several hundred miles.
The S-300 and S-400 systems (alongside the Pantsir-S1) are the most crucial air defense systems currently used by the Russians. The S-400s are considered the most effective weapons of this type in Putin's military arsenal. They can intercept not only drones, airplanes, and helicopters but also cruise missiles and ballistic missiles traveling at high speeds. Their range depends on the type of target and the missiles used, ranging from 25 miles (9M96 rockets) to even several hundred miles (40N6E rockets).
