Russia deploys advanced S‑500 air defence system in Crimea

Russia is strengthening its forces in Crimea. It has deployed the new S-500 "Prometheus" anti-aircraft system.

General Kyrylo Budanov stated that the occupiers had deployed the latest S-500 air defence systems in Crimea. The Air Force reported that the Russians decided to make this move after Ukrainians hit their S-300 and S-400 air defence systems over several nights.

"The Russians have deployed the latest air defense system in Crimea," said Budanov.

The S-500 Prometheus has an operational range of 600 km. It has advanced systems that allow it to combat aircraft, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles at altitudes even above 180 km.

The Ukrainian general pointed out that the Russians are clearly trying to strengthen their air defense on the peninsula.

The Institute for the Study of War also indicated that continuous Ukrainian attacks on Russian military targets in occupied Crimea are forcing the Russian military to direct additional air defence resources to Crimea to defend existing bases and logistical infrastructure and that further Ukrainian attacks on such military targets in occupied Crimea could make the peninsula untenable.