Home
Catalog
Defense Systems
S-300 Air Defense System

S-300 Air Defense System

Manufacturer: Almaz-Antey Corporation
Category: Defense Systems
Add to Compare

Maximum Range Up to 150 km
Maximum Altitude Up to 27 km
Radar Detection Range 300 km
Missile Speed Mach 6+

Full Specifications

1. General Information

System Name	S-300
Manufacturer	Almaz-Antey
Country of Origin	Russia
Type / Role	Long Range Surface to Air Missile System
In Service	Yes
Year Introduced	1978
Unit Cost	USD 300–500 Million per Battery (Estimated)

2. Performance & Capabilities

Maximum Engagement Range	150 km
Maximum Engagement Altitude	27 km
Target Types	Aircraft, Cruise Missiles, Ballistic Missiles
Interception Probability	High against non-stealth targets
Reaction Time	10–20 seconds
Radar Detection Range	Up to 300 km

3. Missile Specifications

Missile Type	48N6 Series
Missile Length	7.5 m
Missile Weight	1,800 kg
Warhead Type	Fragmentation
Warhead Weight	143 kg
Speed	Mach 6+

4. Radar & Fire Control

Radar Type	Phased Array Radar
Radar Name	30N6 Fire Control Radar
Detection Range	Up to 300 km
Tracking Capacity	100+ targets
Guidance System	Command Guidance with Radar Tracking
Fire Control System	Centralized Command Vehicle

5. Launcher & Mobility

Launcher Type	Mobile Truck Mounted
No. of Missiles per Launcher	4
Reload Time	40–60 minutes
Mobility Platform	MAZ 8x8 Heavy Truck
Crew Required	4–6 personnel

6. Command & Control

C2 System	Integrated Air Defense Command
Connectivity	Secure Military Data Links
Network Capability	Yes
Operation Mode	Networked or Autonomous

7. Operational Use

Primary Operator	Russia, China, Iran, Ukraine
Combat Proven	Limited
Conflict History	Syria, Ukraine
Notable Feature	Multi target engagement

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Technology 8 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Operational Flexibility 8 / 10
Combat Effectiveness 8 / 10

PROS

Long engagement range against aircraft
Capable of tracking multiple targets at once
High speed interceptor missiles
Mobile and redeployable design
Proven export and operational history

CONS

Older radar technology compared to modern Western systems
Limited effectiveness against stealth aircraft
Complex logistics and maintenance
Vulnerable to electronic warfare if unsupported
Not optimized for drone swarm defense

S-300 Long Range Air Defense System

The S-300 air defense system is one of the most widely deployed long range surface to air missile systems in the world. Designed during the Cold War and continuously upgraded, it remains a key part of strategic air defense networks across Eastern Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. For U.S. analysts and defense planners, the S-300 is often used as a benchmark system when assessing integrated air defense threats.

Origin and Purpose

Developed by Almaz-Antey of the former Soviet Union, the S-300 entered service in the late 1970s. Its primary mission is to protect critical infrastructure, military bases, and population centers from hostile aircraft, cruise missiles, and limited ballistic missile threats. Multiple variants exist, including the S-300P for air force use and the S-300V for army air defense.

Capabilities and Technology

The S-300 uses phased array radar systems capable of tracking dozens of targets simultaneously. It can engage multiple threats at different altitudes and ranges in near real time. Depending on the missile variant, engagement ranges extend up to 150 km, with interception altitudes reaching 27 km. Missile speeds exceed Mach 6, allowing rapid response against fast moving targets.

The system is fully mobile, with launchers, radar units, and command vehicles mounted on heavy trucks. This mobility improves survivability and allows rapid redeployment. The S-300 has been exported to several countries and has seen operational use in conflict zones, primarily as a deterrent rather than a frequently fired system.

Operational Use

The S-300 plays a major role in layered air defense strategies. It is often integrated with shorter range systems and early warning sensors, creating complex engagement zones that challenge modern air forces.

S-300 Air Defense System Price

The S 300 defense system is not available for U.S. military purchase due to sanctions and procurement policy. Based on global export data, the estimated cost of a complete S-300 battery ranges from USD 300 million to USD 500 million, depending on configuration and missile loadout.

Reviews

Be the first to add a Review

Please post a user review only if you have / had this product.
Your Name *
Your Email *
Review Title *
Review Text *
Rate this Product
Technology:

8
Performance:

8
Operational Flexibility:

8
Combat Effectiveness:

8
Average Rating 6 / 10 based on your selection

Disclaimer Note

The information provided on TheDefenseWatch.com is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of our content regarding defense and aerospace products, technologies, and specifications, we cannot guarantee that all information is 100% accurate or up-to-date due to the evolving nature of military technology and classified data. TheDefenseWatch.com does not warrant the reliability, suitability, or availability of the information for any specific purpose. Users are advised to consult official sources, such as manufacturers, government publications, or defense agencies, for precise and verified data before making decisions based on our content. We are not affiliated with any defense manufacturers, governments, or military organizations mentioned. Opinions, reviews, and ratings reflect expert analysis but are subjective and should not be considered endorsements. TheDefenseWatch.com is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this website’s content. External links are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement. TheDefenseWatch.com reserves the right to update or modify content without prior notice. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy & Cookies Policy.