Russian air-defence thinking is layered: several SAM systems with different range and altitude overlap, so an attacker who passes one layer ends up in the next. Short-range systems also protect the longer-range SAMs against precision weapons and drones.
| Layer | System (NATO) | Range | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strategic / near-space | S-500 (SA-X-29) | ± 500–600 km | Newest outer layer, anti-ballistic/hypersonic |
| Very long | S-400 (SA-21) | ± 400 km | Strategic outer layer, A2/AD bubble |
| Long | S-300PM (SA-20) | ± 200 km | Area-defence main layer |
| Medium | Buk-M / SA-11/17 | ± 30–70 km | Mobile, fills IADS, front-near |
| Short | Pantsir-S1 (SA-22) | ± 20 km | Point defence, anti-PGM/UAS |
| Very short | Tor (SA-15), MANPADS | < 15 km | Mobile/manoeuvre cover |
Most bolded systems have their own threat card with the detailed parameters.
The layered defence proved itself defensively, but came under heavy fire. Ukraine destroyed several S-400, S-300, Buk and Pantsir units with ATACMS, ballistic missiles and drones — mainly in Crimea and the border regions of Kursk/Belgorod. At the same time Russia introduced the S-500 Prometheus: the first regiment entered combat duty in late 2025, reportedly to protect the Crimean Bridge and strategic assets. The S-500 is not a field system but a strategic shield against ballistic and hypersonic threats.