Ukraine steps up air defense overhaul: Buk system upgraded, S-300 next
Photo: Ukraine upgrades Buk and S-300 air defense systems (Photo: mil in ua)
Soviet-era air defense systems still in service in Ukraine are undergoing partial modernization. The Buk surface-to-air missile system has essentially been given a new lease on life, states Deputy Defense Minister Brigadier General Anatolii Klochko.
"The Buk air defense system has received a second life. Today, it's equipped with different missiles and is already performing combat missions. The S-300 is also awaiting major changes. This work is underway - we’re not standing still. When the time comes, we’ll talk about it. We’ll speak once we see tangible results," Klochko said.
According to him, this work is currently "on paper," but he believes that by the second half of 2025, more concrete outcomes will emerge.
The Buk system is a self-propelled surface-to-air missile complex designed to intercept missiles, aircraft, helicopters, and other moving targets. Ukraine operates the Buk-M1 version. As previously reported, the systems have been modified to use AIM-7 missiles.
The S-300 is a medium-range air defense system developed during the Soviet era. Depending on the specific launcher and interceptor missile type, its maximum range can reach 150, 200, or even 300 kilometers.
Ukraine's air defense
During the full-scale war, Ukraine has modernized and strengthened its air defense with new systems. The Ukrainian military has received advanced IRIS-T, NASAMS, and Patriot systems from international partners.
In the summer of 2024, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine needs 25 Patriot systems to fully protect its skies.
Zelenskyy also said that Ukraine is ready to purchase weapons and air defense systems from the United States worth between $30 and $50 billion. This includes Patriot systems or obtaining licenses to produce them.
According to the President, despite the enemy's massive attacks, Ukraine still has missiles for the Patriot air defense systems.
