Russian Armed Forces S-350 and S-400 air defense systems modernized with new AESA radars

Following the publication of new images on social media and in local media outlets, analysts have begun to observe that the S-350 and S-400 air defense systems of the Russian Armed Forces appear to have been modernized with new AESA radars, with the aim of increasing their target detection capabilities. In addition, efforts to upgrade these systems also stand out for providing them with a greater ability to withstand electronic attacks that could degrade their combat performance, a key aspect on modern battlefields.

Expanding on the details, it should be noted that in the case of the S-350 systems, they would have been equipped with a new dual-array 96L6-TsP radar along with three passive 96L6-VP modules. As described, these newly integrated systems would provide the platform with the ability to detect stealth enemy threats, as well as to operate in a “covert” mode without having the main radar switched on.

On the other hand, the more modern S-400 systems would have been prepared to operate with Yenisei-type radars, which would enable them to track potential threats traveling at hypersonic speeds. Furthermore, it is indicated that the platform will now be able to detect aircraft with a low radar cross section at distances between 150 and 200 kilometers, while in the case of conventional aircraft this range would extend up to 600 kilometers.

It is useful to recall at this point that both systems form part of a broader air defense network deployed by Russia to safeguard its airspace, characterized by the configuration of multiple defensive layers to provide a phased response to potential threats. In this context, the S-350 systems are employed to neutralize medium-range targets, while the S-400 offer greater capabilities and also add the ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously. An even higher tier is occupied by the S-500 models, whose characteristics allow them to intercept targets at very high altitudes, and which have also been the subject of speculation regarding the integration of Yenisei radars.

Beyond this issue, it is also worth considering that Russia has long been striving to modernize the capabilities of its main air defense systems, especially by taking into account lessons learned from combat operations against Ukraine. As an illustrative example, it should be noted that last December the CEO of the weapons manufacturer Almaz-Antey, Yan Novikov, stated regarding the S-400: “One of these responses is the enormous modernization potential of the S-400 air defense missile system, which allows us to quickly mitigate emerging threats during the special military operation. Thanks to this potential, the Triumph has acquired new capabilities and properties that are generally not characteristic of air defense systems.”

Finally, it is important to highlight that reports in local media also mention the idea that these innovations could be offered to international customers of the systems discussed above. This is no minor detail, considering, for example, that New Delhi is negotiating with Moscow over the potential purchase of additional S-400 systems to reinforce its existing inventories, which have proven their effectiveness during the so-called Operation Sindoor. This forms part of a broader modernization process currently underway in the country.

*Image credits to the respective owners

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