The American magazine Military Watch reported that the Russian Aerospace Forces used the A-50U "flying radar" early warning aircraft in intercepting Ukrainian Flamingo cruise missiles.
The magazine said: "This attracted particular attention after Russian air defense systems shot down more than five missiles of this type."
She added that a group of Ukrainian cruise missiles were intercepted by Russian air defense systems, supported by fighter jets, as they approached their targets. According to the magazine, the A-50U aircraft provided the capability to detect targets flying over rivers and complex terrain, areas that are difficult for ground-based radars to effectively cover.
The magazine noted that the ability of the "flying radar" to monitor beyond the horizon gives it particular importance in countering cruise missiles that fly at low altitudes, taking advantage of the terrain.
She also explained that the Russian system allows for the detection and tracking of cruise missiles 10 to 30 minutes before their arrival, compared to relying on ground radars alone, as well as providing a much wider coverage range.
It is noted that the Russian A-50U command and early warning aircraft were previously also used to guide air defense systems and fighters, enabling S-400 air defense systems and Su-35 fighters equipped with R-37 missiles to engage targets at distances of up to 350–400 kilometers, according to the magazine.
