Ukraine's Multi-Layered Air Defense: Countering Advanced Russian Threats with the Patriot Missile System and Western Support

Patriot vs. Su-35

Kyiv, Ukraine – With Russia’s persistent aggression, Ukraine is testing its recently acquired American Patriot missile defense system on Russia’s Su-35 Fighter Jet. The Ukrainian military notably intercepted a Russian hypersonic Kinzhal-type ballistic missile with the Patriot system, marking the first known occurrence of such a feat. However, doubts linger over the system’s capability to counter Su-35 fighter jets deploying aerial-guided bombs from afar.

Made by Sukhoi Aviation Corporation, Russia’s Su-35 is a versatile fighter aircraft that primarily functions as an air superiority fighter with secondary air-to-ground capabilities. To counter this, Ukraine suggests the use Patriot missile system, which is designed to intercept and neutralize incoming missiles and aircraft, against the Su-35.

The US Patriot missile defense system has significantly bolstered Ukraine’s ability to withstand Moscow’s hostilities. However, despite its successful interception of a Russian hypersonic missile, the system’s capacity to shoot down Su-35 fighter jets remains uncertain. In response, Ukraine’s military has integrated advanced air defense systems like the German IRIS-T and US-made NASAMS, establishing a formidable, multi-layered air defense network alongside the Patriot system.

Ukraine’s defense minister, Oleksii Reznikov, asserts that implementing these advanced air defense systems aligns with a wider plan to modernize Ukraine’s military capabilities and deter Russian aggression. The efficacy of these systems against Russian fighter jets deploying aerial-guided bombs from a distance, however, is yet to be determined.

The Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) have adjusted their tactics in response to Ukraine’s enhanced air defense capabilities, striking Ukraine without penetrating its airspace. By deploying precision-guided aerial bombs, Russian Su-34 and Su-35 jets can evade Kyiv’s air defense systems and MANPADS, launching these bombs from distances of 50 to 70 kilometers.

Ukraine’s Air Force spokesperson, Yury Ihnat, stresses the urgency of addressing this new threat by relying on air defense systems and collaborating with Western partners to form an aviation coalition and supply Ukraine with fighter jets.

Skepticism Remains

While Ukrainian troops trained on the Patriot air defense system consider the Russian Su-35 fighter jet as their prime target, skepticism remains over the Patriot’s ability to shoot down the Su-35, which deploys guided bombs well outside of Ukraine’s airspace.

The US, Germany, and the Netherlands have supplied Ukraine with Patriot systems, although the precise quantity and deployment locations remain undisclosed. Confronting the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) tactics without entering Ukraine’s airspace is still challenging, despite the presence of advanced air defense systems like the German IRIS-T, US/Norwegian-made NASAMS, and the newly acquired Patriots. The effectiveness of the Patriot missile system and other air defense assets against threats like the Su-35 remains uncertain.

In summary, the US Patriot missile defense system has played a pivotal role in aiding Ukraine against Russian aggression, with its interception of a hypersonic missile being a considerable milestone. Nonetheless, questions persist regarding its effectiveness against Su-35 fighter jets launching aerial-guided bombs. Incorporating newly acquired advanced air defense systems with the Patriot missile defense system forms part of Ukraine’s strategy to modernize its military capabilities and deter Russian aggression. However, the efficacy of this multi-layered air defense network against advanced threats like the Su-35 fighter jet remains to be seen.

As the Ukraine-Russia conflict evolves, both sides continue to adapt their tactics and capabilities. The Su-35’s utilization of aerial-guided bombs to bypass Ukrainian air defenses underscores Russia’s determination to exploit gaps in Ukraine’s defenses. Simultaneously, Ukraine is strengthening its air defense network with advanced systems such as the Patriot missile defense system, IRIS-T, and NASAMS.

Countering Emerging Threats

To address this emerging threat, cooperation with Western partners is vital for Ukraine to reinforce its air defenses and deter further Russian aggression. As suggested by Ukraine’s Air Force spokesperson, establishing an aviation coalition and providing additional fighter jets may be crucial in tackling the challenges posed by the Su-35 and other advanced Russian aircraft. It is with these essential collaboration efforts that Ukraine’s territorial integrity and maintaining regional stability.

Patriot locating radar mounted on an 8X8 truck. Image courtesy of Flickr.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of the Patriot missile defense system and other air defense assets in neutralizing the threat posed by Su-35 fighter jets deploying aerial-guided bombs will depend on several factors. These include system integration, tactics employed by both sides and the level of support provided by Western partners. As the situation unfolds, the ability of Ukraine’s multi-layered air defense network to counter Russia’s advanced military assets will be critical in determining the outcome of this ongoing conflict.

Both sides must continuously adapt to address new challenges and capitalize on their strengths in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. As Ukraine enhances its air defense network and receives support from Western partners, the nation demonstrates its commitment to securing its sovereignty and protecting its people. Conversely, Russia continues to employ advanced tactics and technologies to maintain pressure on Ukraine, underscoring the importance of vigilance and adaptation in the face of evolving threats.

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** For all you’d ever want to know about the Patriot Missile System, click here.