The Ukrainian military successfully intercepted a hypersonic missile launched by Russia using a recently acquired Patriot air defence system, according to US officials. The missile attack, which occurred outside Kyiv, failed due to the Ukrainian military’s quick deployment of multiple Patriot missiles from different angles to intercept the Russian missile.
The Russian military is believed to have detected signals emitted from the Patriot system, allowing them to target it with the Kinzhal or Killjoy missile. The Patriot is a powerful air defence platform that can intercept ballistic missiles and more. However, its radar emissions can be detected by the enemy, enabling them to locate the Patriot battery.
Ukraine recently received at least two Patriot systems from the US and Germany to enhance its air defences against missiles such as the Kinzhal, which is expected to enter service in the Russian military soon. The Russian military reportedly intercepted the radar signals of a stationary Patriot missile defence system outside Kyiv, which was probing for incoming threats, according to Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk.
Patriot missiles have a reputation as a dependable air defence platform capable of intercepting conventional aerial threats and ballistic missiles, but its radar signals increase the system’s detectability if they are not partially concealed. Two Patriot systems were recently delivered to Ukraine to counter advanced missile systems. While a typical training programme lasts about a year, the training was reduced to several months due to Ukrainian forces already having a strong understanding of air defence systems.
The Russian spokesperson has stated previously that the Patriot would be considered a legitimate target. The Ukrainian military successfully intercepted a Kinzhal hypersonic missile using a Patriot air defense system, marking the first known successful use of the advanced system in Ukraine.
The Ukrainian air defenders fired multiple missiles from the Patriot at different angles to intercept the Russian missile, demonstrating how quickly they have become adept at using the powerful system. However, U.S. officials believe that the Russians were able to pick up on signals emitted from the Patriot and figure out its location.
The interception occurred on the night of May 4th and was confirmed this week by Pentagon Press Secretary, Patrick Ryder. The Patriot missile system has the capability to intercept ballistic missiles and more; however, its powerful radar emission makes it possible for the enemy to detect it.
Ukraine successfully shot down a Kinzhal missile with a Patriot defense system earlier this month in an overnight attack on the capital, marking the country’s first known use of the advanced American system. According to the Kyiv Post, the missile was launched by Russia from its territory, with a range of up to 1,250 miles and speeds of 10 times the speed of sound, making it difficult to intercept.
Despite this, the Patriot missile was able to intercept and destroy the Kinzhal, one of Russia’s latest and most advanced weapons. The Ukrainian military has previously admitted a lack of assets to intercept the missile. The country took delivery of its first Patriot missiles in April, with North America and Europe having provided the systems, though it is unclear how many are currently operational.
In conclusion, the successful interception of a hypersonic missile by the Ukrainian military using a Patriot air defence system marks a significant development in Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against advanced missile technology. However, the detection of the Patriot’s radar signals by the Russians highlights the need for continued improvements in air defence technology and training to counter future threats.
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