A high-value Russian radar system caught fire in Russian-occupied Crimea. According to media reports, the Russian 96L6E radar system, which facilitates the operation of S-300 and S-400 anti-aircraft systems, went up in flames while moving along the Yevpatorian highway in Saky of Crimea.
The 96L6E radar systems are used for detecting, determining the state nationality, identification of classes, locking on, and tracking the routes of air targets. A major element of Russia's air defense infrastructure, 96L6E radar systems are designed to detect and measure the coordinates of targets and offer an overview of defined detection zones and select priority targets. They can identify four classes of targets—aircraft, helicopters, UAVs and missiles.
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Footages circulating online show flames behind the cab where the engine compartment of the 96L6E radar system is located, according to a report by Ukrainian defense publication Militarnyi.
The fire engulfed the antenna of the radar system which contains sensitive devices.
The report suggests that such a fire may have caused huge damage to the vehicle, making it totally inoperable.
The cause of the incident is yet to be known.
According to media reports, ever since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began, Moscow lost at least three 96L6 radars, weakening the ability of Russia to detect and engage airborne targets.
