Russia develops 1st generation of space defense systems

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russia is developing the first generation of space defense systems, head of the Russian Aerospace Forces Sergey Surovikin said on Friday.

The S-500 air defense system, currently being developed by Russia's state-owned weapons producer Almaz-Antey, will be able to hit hypersonic targets, low-orbit satellites, and space weapons, its technical specification allows to range it as the first generation of space defense systems, Surovikin said in an interview with the Defense Ministry daily Krasnaya Zvezda (Red Star).

"Proceeding from its technical specification, the S-500 can be ranged as the first generation of space defense systems, in the future it will be able to destroy low-orbit satellites and space weapons. S-500 built-in capabilities make it possible to destroy hypersonic weapons of all modifications, including in near space, in addition to aerodynamic and ballistic targets. It is safe to say that there are no analogues of this system," Surovikin said.

Simultaneously, Russia continues to improve a space control system as it is one of the most important factors in ensuring national security, he added.

The production of S-500 air defense system is planned on 2021, and after entering into service it will be integrated into a single network of aerospace defense assets.