Russia begins using early warning aircraft to spot targets for missile batteries, MOD says

Russia is thought to have started using its Beriev A-50 Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft to identify targets for its most advanced surface-to-air missile system, according to the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD).

In its latest defence intelligence update, the MOD said Russia is "likely" deploying the aircraft, which has the Nato codename Mainstay D, to locate targets over Ukraine for its long-range, ground-based S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems.

"This adds to MAINSTAY's core mission of co-ordinating fighter aircraft," the MOD said.

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"Compared to SA-21's usual ground-based radar, MAINSTAY can use its radar to spot adversary aircraft at longer ranges because its altitude allows it to see further around the curvature of the earth," the MOD explained.

SA-21 Growler is the Nato codename for the S-400 Triumf, which can take on aerial targets as well as ballistic missiles.

"Russia has likely expedited integrating MAINSTAY and SA-21 partially because it is concerned about the prospect of Ukraine deploying Western-provided combat aircraft," the MOD added.

While the Mainstay can more easily locate targets for the S-400, the MOD pointed out that deploying it closer to the frontline is not without danger.

"There is a realistic possibility that Russia will accept more risk by flying MAINSTAY closer to the frontline in order to effectively carry out its new role," it said.

Earlier this week, Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron visited Kyiv to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The Ukrainian leader said the pair discussed the supply of weapons for his forces fighting against the Russian invasion, including strengthening Ukraine's air defences.

It comes as fierce fighting in Ukraine continues, with the city of Avdiivka now a symbol for Ukraine’s resistance.

Avdiivka has become a symbol for Ukraine's battle against Russia and holds great strategic importance - meaning Russian forces are determined to take it and Ukrainian forces are fiercely defending it.