S-500 Missile System, Features, Range, Speed, Comparison

The S-500 Missile System, also known as 55R6M “Triumfator-M” or Prometey, is Russia’s most advanced mobile surface-to-air and anti-ballistic missile platform. It is designed to counter modern hypersonic threats and supplements the S-400 and A-235 missile systems. It was developed by Almaz-Antey and officially entered service on 16 September 2021 with the Russian Space Forces. It is capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons, aircraft, UAVs, and even low-orbit satellites.

S-500 Missile System Features

The S-500 Missile System features cutting-edge radars, long-range interception, modern hypersonic defense, and multi-target engagement capabilities as detailed below:

• Designed to intercept ballistic missiles, hypersonic cruise missiles, aircraft, and low-Earth orbit satellites at ranges up to 600 km.
• Air-defense range is approximately 500 km, with the ability to track and engage 10 hypersonic targets flying at 7 km/s.
• Target altitude capability reaches 180-200 km, enabling near-space interception.
• Response time is under 4 seconds, faster than S-400.
• Components include 77P6 launch vehicles, 91N6A(M) radars, 96L6-TsP radar, 76T6, and 77T6 engagement radars.
• Uses 40N6M, 77N6, and 77N6-N1 missiles.

S-500 Missile System and S-400 Comparison

The S-500 Missile System  significantly advances in several aspects including interception altitude, response time, and hypersonic engagement capabilities as compared to the S-400 system. The major difference is listed below:

• Range: S-400 reaches 380 km, while the S-500 Missile System extends to 600 km, offering deeper strategic defense.
• Satellite Capability: S-400 lacks ASAT functionality; the S-500 Missile System can target LEO satellites.
• Response: S-400 response is <10 seconds; S-500 reacts within 3-4 seconds, enhancing survivability.
• Altitude: S-400 intercepts around 30-40 km, whereas the S-500 Missile System can engage targets at 200 km, reaching near-space.
• Radar: The S-500 Missile System offers superior multi-band radar detection compared to S-400’s high but limited stealth tracking.
• Hypersonic Interception: S-400 has limited capability, while the S-500 Missile System reportedly can neutralize hypersonic targets traveling Mach 5-7.

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S-500 Missile System UPSC

Recently during the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India (Dec 4, 2025), the Defence Minister is expected to show interest in the S-500 Missile System amid ongoing defense discussions.

• In September 2021, Russia indicated that India could be the first potential export customer for the S-500 Missile System.
• Various reports in September 2025 suggested India’s interest following the S-400’s performance in Operation Sindoor, though later reports clarified no immediate purchase decision.
• High cost, complex maintenance, specialized training, and integration challenges remain key issues for India.
• During President Vladimir Putin’s visit, discussions between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov may include timely supply of military hardware and potential future procurement of the S-500 Missile System.
• Export availability remains limited, and political negotiations are expected to be prolonged.