February 18, 2004 :: Gateway to Russia :: News
Former commander of the Russian Air Force Anatoly Kornukov declared that Russian defenses against air attack are “in deplorable condition,” and comparing their capabilities to those of several decades ago. He cited the S-50 air defense system as one example, whose effectiveness has been halved. But whatever the condition of Russian defenses against aircraft, however, Russia’s missile defense system is still in reasonably good shape.
After denegrating the air defense systems, Kornukov immediately added that the whole situation “is not hopeless,” and went on to describe Russia’s missile defense system as operating effectively.
Kornukov also spoke of the need for Russia to employ space: “Russia needs an inexpensive but reliable space defense system, capable of protecting it from air and space strikes,” and added that “Space defense should become a vital part of a system to deter possible aggression against Russia.” The Russian press reports that Kornukov goes on to describe Russia’s missile defense system as “capable of hitting orbital vehicles.”
Kornukov specifically spoke of Russia’s newer S-400 air and missile defense system, which uses the Triumf interceptor, as having been tested successfully and was ready for serial production.
The Triumf interceptor is reported to have a range of 400km, and is to be used against both ballistic and cruise missiles such as the American Tomahawk—as well as against early warning, tactical, and strategic aircraft. In terms of its ballistic missile defense capabilities, it is said to be able to intercept warheads traveling at a speed of 4,800 km per hour (1.3km/sec).
(Article)» RBC News on Triumf capability
» Russia Journal on Triumf
» More stories on: Russian Missile Defenses
» Missile system details for: S-400 (SA-20 Triumf)
