S-500 Promete (anti-aircraft missile system)

2024: Obtaining a new computing complex to destroy hypersonic missiles

At the end of February 2024, it became known that the Russian anti-aircraft missile system S-500 Promete received a new computing system to destroy hypersonic targets. Thus, Promete can actually shoot down any missiles - from short-range systems to intercontinental ballistic systems.

According to the Izvestia newspaper, citing statements by Dmitry Kornev, editor of the Militaryrussia portal, the S-500 can work on combat blocks of intercontinental ballistic missiles that fly at hypersonic speed, as well as on guided warheads and similar shorter-range systems. In addition, "Promete" can be used in conjunction with the S-400 system, which allows you to withstand "almost any air and space threats."

source = Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation

It is noted that the ability to combat hypersonic targets in S-500 has been implemented thanks to the use of new powerful radars and a high-performance computing unit that efficiently processes the information received and generates commands for launchers and product guidance. This should involve "highly maneuverable missiles with a high flight speed, because only they can hit hypersonic objects."

According to Kornev, hypersonic targets are difficult to intercept because they are relatively small and their shape makes it difficult for radar to detect. Conventional ballistic missiles can be detected in 2 thousand km, and the calculation of the anti-aircraft system has a relatively long time at its disposal. At the same time, the hypersonic target moves not along a high ballistic trajectory, but along the border of the atmosphere. Its detection distance is 300-500 km, therefore, parameter calculations should be carried out as quickly as possible. In addition, it is necessary to launch several missiles in order to guarantee the destruction of the target, even if it will maneuver.^[1]

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