Russia unveils two new air defense systems Yenisei and Valdai.

In response to the growing threat posed by Ukrainian drones (UAVs) and long-range missiles, Russia has announced the completion of its Yenisei autonomous target designation system and the Valdai radar system. The Director General of the Almaz Research and Production Association, Gennady Bendersky, revealed the completion of these defense systems to Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu during his visit to inspect the execution of the state defense order by the Almaz-Antey Corporation on March 6, 2024.
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Gennady Bendersky revealed the completion of the Yenisei and the Valdai to Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu during his visit. (Picture source: Russian MoD)

The new means of combating drones, currently undergoing tests in Russian factories, include the Yenisei autonomous target designation system, which enhances the capabilities of the S-400 anti-aircraft missile system, and the Valdai radar system, designed to detect and counter drones.

Although most of the information about these systems remains classified, reports from local Russian media, citing open-source intelligence, suggest that the Yenisei system was designed to bolster the capabilities of the S-500 air defense system. Reports indicate that the multifunctional Yenisei radar, with a range of up to 600 kilometers and an altitude of up to 100 kilometers, can identify and track both aerodynamic and ballistic targets. The advanced features of the radar, including dual-band phased locator technology, enable better target discrimination and the elimination of deception tracks. Additionally, the Yenisei system operates passively for electronic listening and aerial surveillance, transmitting targeting data to engage targets using the multifunction radars of the S-400 / S-500 systems.

The Valdai radar system, mounted on a three-axle self-propelled vehicle, is equipped with advanced capabilities to identify and track targets with very low radar cross-sections, distinguishing small drones from other aerial objects for precise suppression and neutralization. By combining optoelectronic detection, radio localization, and radar functionalities, the Valdai system provides comprehensive coverage with a 360-degree azimuthal scan and a minimum detection range of 300 meters.

The S-500 is a long-range surface-to-air missile defense system designed to intercept both ballistic and aerial targets. Each missile launcher is equipped with two missiles, each stored in an individual container. The range of the missiles varies depending on the type, with the 77N6-N having a range of 600 km for ballistic missiles and 400 km for aerial targets, while the 77N6-N1 offers similar capabilities but with distinct specifications not detailed here.

In terms of deployment, the S-500 is designed to be quickly deployed in the field. It can transition from the travel position to operational configuration in just 5 to 10 minutes. Once deployed, the system can be ready for use in 3 minutes.

Both systems are reported to have entered service in 2021, bolstering Russia's defense capabilities against increased drone attacks by Ukraine on Russian installations far from the frontlines. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu emphasized the critical role of these surface-to-air missile systems in the conflict in Ukraine, highlighting the expanding range of weapons that Russian air defense systems must counter.