Russian claims on destroying Patriot system in Ukraine debunked as propaganda

Russian media have released a propaganda film claiming the destruction of a Patriot missile defense system - the target of the Iskander missile attack was allegedly the M902 launcher and the AN/MPQ-65 radar. Many signs indicate that the Russians were fooled and, in reality, destroyed a dummy of the American system.

Missile defence systems are crucial for protecting vital civilian and military locations from air attacks, significantly maintaining strategic advantage and national security. Their capability to detect, track, and eliminate incoming missiles or enemy aircraft diminishes the impact of bombings and boosts the defence effectiveness of the territory.

In 2023, American Patriot missile defence systems were delivered to Ukraine. They proved effective not only in deflecting missile assaults but also in challenging Russian aviation. Thus, it's unsurprising that the Russian Federation has marked these American systems as significant targets.

Recently, the Russians released propaganda content in which they claim to have destroyed a Patriot system near Huliaipole in the Zaporizhzhia Oblast - the Iskander-M ballistic missile was allegedly aimed at the M902 launcher and the AN/MPQ-65 radar.

Analysts believe the Russians scored a precise hit with an Iskander missile, valued at about CAD 4 million, but on a decoy of the anti-aircraft system.

Specialists noted the lack of the characteristic antenna for the M902/903 launchers and the inaccurate positioning of the AN/MPQ-65 radar. Notably, no secondary explosions from launcher missiles were observed after the attack.

The equipment supplied to Ukraine uses PAC-2 and PAC-3 missiles, mainly designed to counter aircraft and ballistic warheads, as well as neutralize manoeuvring missiles and tactical rockets. The AN/MPQ-65 radar, with its 240-degree field of view, also plays an essential role.