Ukrainian Patriot missile ambush: How Russia lost its A‑50 aircraft
The shooting down of the Russian early warning aircraft Beriev A-50 was widely commented on in industry media. The Russians suggested the accidental downing of the plane by their anti-air defence, but the actual cause of the disaster was entirely different. Americans recently provided information about what happened over the Sea of Azov. We describe the aircraft's capabilities.
On January 14, 2024, over the Sea of Azov, a Russian early warning aircraft Beriev A-50 was shot down. The aircraft played a crucial role in patrolling the skies and providing valuable information to the military, making its loss very painful for Moscow. At the same time, it was also a display of Ukrainian capabilities and a significant embarrassment for the Russians.
Shortly afterward, reports began appearing in Russia suggesting that their anti-air defence had shot down the early warning aircraft. What was the reality?
A clever plan by the Ukrainians
A video is circulating online with a speech by U.S. Army Colonel Rosanna Clemente, deputy chief of staff for Air Defense and Missile Defense Command of the 10th Army, during a special event called the Fires Symposium.
Clemente revealed that Ukrainian forces used the Patriot air defence system to shoot down the Russian A-50. Colonel Clemente described the operation as a SAMbush ("an ambush using air defence systems").
Why was the Beriev A-50 aircraft such an important target for the Ukrainians?
The Beriev A-50, also known by the NATO code name "Mainstay," is the result of collaboration between two significant companies - Ilyushin and Beriev. The aircraft was designed as a successor to another popular model, the Tupolev Tu-126. Many elements from the Ilyushin Il-76 transport aircraft were used in constructing the Beriev A-50, allowing for the creation of a highly effective machine.
The Beriev A-50 was introduced into service in 1984 and has continuously served the air forces. This aircraft has impressive dimensions - its length is nearly 50 meters, its height is about 15 meters, and its wingspan is 51 meters.
Moreover, the A-50 can reach speeds up to 900 km/h, and its operational range is estimated at 7,500 kilometres. This means the aircraft can cover long distances without refuelling, making it extremely useful in various missions.
One of the critical elements of the Beriev A-50's equipment is an observation radar named Liana. Thanks to this advanced system, the aircraft can detect and track airborne targets at distances up to 650 kilometres and observe ground targets up to 300 kilometres.
The Beriev A-50 is an incredibly versatile aircraft that can be used in various missions. It can serve in observation, target interception, supporting ground attacks, and overseeing operations on the battlefield. This makes it an indispensable element of the air forces, contributing to the effectiveness of military operations.
