Moscow still relies on Soviet-era missile defense system, media report

History of Moscow's missile defense system

The development of Moscow's missile defense network began during the Soviet era with Project A. It was later followed by the A-35 system, which entered trial operation in 1974 after years of development.

Work on its successor, the A-135 system, began in 1971. Following a lengthy period of testing and upgrades, it was eventually commissioned between the late 1980s and mid-1990s.

At the same time, work continued on the next-generation A-235 system. Development of the project began in 1986 and is still ongoing.

As part of the testing program, launches of the Nudol interceptor missile have been recorded since 2014.

Don-2N radar and detection network

The Don-2N radar station, located approximately 30 km north of Moscow, is considered the core element of the system.

This massive facility stands about 35 meters high with faces exceeding 130 meters, and is equipped with phased array antennas for 360-degree surveillance.

Construction of the station began in the late 1970s and was completed in the 1990s. Its primary mission is to detect intercontinental ballistic missile warheads and track targets, transmitting data to interception systems.

Interceptor missiles and operating principles

The A-135 system includes two types of interceptors: long-range and short-range missiles. The heavy 51T6 interceptor was designed to engage targets at long distances and high altitudes, while the 53T6 interceptor was intended for close-range engagements directly over the protected area.

Both missiles use radio-command guidance. Due to limitations in interception accuracy, the system relies on nuclear warheads of varying yields to compensate for potential deviations when engaging incoming targets.

Features and current status

Historically, Moscow's missile defense network included multiple launcher sites positioned around the capital. Some of the long-range interceptor complexes have already been retired, while the short-range interceptors are believed to remain operational and are still deployed at several sites surrounding the city.

Experts note that development of the system continues, with elements of newer technologies gradually replacing aging components while preserving the network's core mission — protecting the Moscow region from missile threats.

Earlier, a diagram was circulating online that allegedly showed the deployment of air defense systems around Moscow. The image reportedly marks various air defense positions, with different colors used to distinguish the locations of individual systems.