It is reported that three Su-34 fighter-bombers were shot down in southern Ukraine. This news is really shocking, after all, the Su-34 is Russia's top fighter, but I didn't expect it to be shot down by the "Patriot" air defense missile system in the 80s of the 20th century. What's going on here? The incident has sparked widespread concern and speculation, with many seeking answers.
Let's first get acquainted with the Su-34 fighter. Based on the Su-27 fighter, the fighter has excellent radar search and target targeting capabilities, and can attack multiple targets simultaneously. One of the most striking features is its unique cockpit structure, where two pilots can sit side by side, which greatly improves the ability to cooperate in complex battlefield environments. With a bomb load of up to 8,000 kg, the Su-34 can carry various types**, including air-to-air missiles, air-to-surface missiles, and bombs. Therefore, the Su-34 is considered the "mainstay" of the Russian Air Force.
However, the fact that such a high-profile fighter was shot down by the "Patriot" anti-aircraft missile system in the 80s of the 20th century has caused widespread questions and discussions. It is reported that Ukraine may have used the Patriot anti-aircraft missile system of American production. Despite the fact that the system was born decades ago, its combat capability has been effectively maintained through several upgrades.
The Patriot system consists of a powerful radar, control station, generators, launch stations, and other support vehicles. Each system costs more than $1 billion and has been deployed in more than 240 countries worldwide.
In addition, the PAC-3 missiles used in the system are expensive, at about $4 million each, but their advanced direct-hit technology makes them more effective at intercepting tactical ballistic and cruise missiles. According to reports, since 2015, the Patriot system has successfully intercepted more than 150 ballistic missiles in real combat.
How did the "Patriot" shoot down the Su-34 this time? First, when the Su-34 enters the radar detection range of the Patriot system at a distance of 150 km, the system immediately locks on its target and keeps tracking. As soon as the system acquires accurate target information, the control station immediately orders the launch of the PAC-3 missile. The PAC-3 missile uses direct impact technology, which does not rely on ** to destroy the target, but intercepts the target through a high-speed collision, which greatly improves the accuracy of interception.
The downing of the Su-34 by the Patriot is a cause for thought, and it shows that even an age-old air defense system can still play an important role if it is properly upgraded and maintained. This also reflects the importance of electronic warfare and information warfare in modern warfare, and emphasizes the critical importance of the rapid development and adaptability of battlefield technology.