A video published on 28/5 by VK social media account Osvedomitel showed a Mi-26 helicopter lifting a Pantsir-SMD-E air defense system onto the rooftop of the 42-story Nordstar Tower in the capital Moscow. This tower is approximately 162 m tall, located in central Moscow and not far from the Kremlin.

"This move indicates Russia is deploying efforts to strengthen its air defense network in Moscow to counter Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)", said Thomas Newdick, an editor at the US military specialized website War Zone.

The Pantsir-SMD-E, unveiled by Russia in 8/2024, is a weapon specialized in countering UAVs. It is equipped with 48 TKB-1055 missiles, which have a range of 7 km and an altitude ceiling of 5,000 m, making them effective against small-sized targets. The complex can also carry 12 standard 57E6-E missiles with a 20 km range, for regional air defense purposes.

Unlike previous Pantsir variants, the Pantsir-SMD-E removes the 30 mm cannon to install several 4-launcher clusters containing TKB-1055 missiles. Russia is developing laser weapons and other assets for integration into the Pantsir system, though it is unclear which variant will be equipped.

Russia has previously used older Pantsir models to counter UAVs, protecting bases, government agency headquarters, and critical industrial facilities. It is estimated that last year, Russia deployed more than 40 additional Pantsir systems to the area surrounding the capital Moscow.

Pantsir-S1 and Pantsir-SMD-E air defense systems. Graphics: *Izvestia*

According to Newdick, Russia developed the Pantsir-SMD-E based on experience from using older models in countering UAVs. Deploying the Pantsir system on skyscrapers allows radars a clearer operational range, increasing reaction time and expanding the firing angle.

This arrangement also provides the Pantsir with a safer firing position compared to ground-level deployment.

Newdick noted that after the 11/9/2001 attacks, Washington, the capital of the United States, also bolstered its air defenses with FIM-92 Stinger anti-aircraft missile launchers.

Nguyen Tien (According to War Zone, AFP, AP)