High-Value Russian Radar Burns in Crimea, Impacting Key Air Defense System Operations

A high-value Russian 96L6E surveillance radar, critical to the operation of S-300 and S-400 air defense systems, caught fire in Crimea, according to a video released by the Ukrainian guerrilla Telegram channel Crimean Wind on March 4.

The radar reportedly ignited while being transported along the Yevpatoriyske highway in the city of Saky.

The cause of the fire remains unknown. However, video footage shows flames spreading behind the vehicle’s cabin, where the engine and transmission compartment are located.

The fire appears to have completely engulfed the radar’s antenna, which in its transport position sits atop the driver’s cabin.

The antenna module is a critical component of the system, containing highly sensitive equipment. Such extensive fire damage likely rendered the radar inoperable, requiring long-term repairs.

The 96L6E radar is an essential part of Russia’s S-400 air defense system, responsible for detecting high-altitude and medium-altitude aerial targets. It serves as the primary radar detection unit within these anti-aircraft complexes.

Integrated into Russia’s broader air defense network, the radar can operate alongside other surveillance systems.

The 96L6E functions in the X-band frequency range (8–12 GHz) and, according to its manufacturer, has a maximum detection range of 300 kilometers.

The radar’s phased-array antenna, seen burning in the video, is built using advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, allowing for high-resolution target detection and rapid airspace scanning. These components are made of complex metal alloys and are extremely sensitive to high temperatures.

Earlier, Ukraine’s 10th Mountain Assault Brigade “Edelweiss” destroyed a Russian Zoopark-1 counter-battery radar in the Luhansk region with drones.