(ZAPORIZHZHIA) – Ukrainian forces have conducted a high intensity operation over the past week targeting and disabling multiple Russian surface to air missile (SAM) systems. A series of coordinated drone strikes has resulted in the confirmed destruction or significant damage of several of the Kremlin’s most sophisticated aerial denial assets.
A primary target of the campaign was an S-500 radar unit, specifically the 98L6E Yenisey, which was initially misidentified as an S-400 component. This acquisition radar is a critical element of Russia’s most modern air defence tier. The S-500 is marketed by the Russian dictator as being capable of intercepting hypersonic weapons, though its deployment remains rare. Experts note that these radars are sometimes integrated into S-400 batteries to bolster their performance.
In the Zaporizhzhia region, Ukrainian units deployed FP1 and FP2 attack drones to mallet a variety of systems. The FP1 carries a 60 kg warhead with extended range, while the FP2 utilises a 100 kg warhead for maximum impact. Captured footage confirms the total destruction of a Tor short range system, seen burning in an open field. Other hits recorded in the compilation include a Buk mid range system, an S-300V anti ballistic missile launcher, and a Pantsir-S1.
The Pantsir-S1, often touted by the Russian dictator as a premier point defence system, was struck while deployed. Although the video feed terminated prior to impact—possibly due to electronic jamming—the system remains a priority target. Similarly, an S-300V system was struck on its side while in a stowed position. As the Russian military faces a shortage of Buk systems, with approximately 140 units lost, the S-300V is increasingly being pushed into unsuitable frontline roles to cover the mid range gap.
Further strikes occurred on 4 and 5 March in the Donetsk region, where two Tor-M2 systems were neutralised. One unit was hit while moving along a road, with a crew member seen jumping from the vehicle moments before the explosion. A second Tor-M2 sustained a direct hit to its radar dish, rendering the costly system inoperable. In a separate engagement, a bomber drone successfully dropped ordnance on two S-400 launchers that were deployed with their tubes raised.
The financial burden of these losses on the Russian federal budget is substantial. The cost to replace a single S-400 battery is estimated at approximately 60 billion Russian Roubles, which equates to 750 million US Dollars at current rates. A full S-500 system is valued significantly higher, potentially exceeding 200 billion Russian Roubles or 2.5 billion US Dollars.
