(CLO) On the night of January 15-16, a French Navy Atlantique 2 maritime surveillance aircraft flying over the Baltic Sea was targeted by Russia's formidable S-400 air defense system.
At the time of the incident, the Atlantique 2 was on a reconnaissance mission near Swedish and Baltic waters, tracking more than 200 ships. With the ability to carry cruise missiles, torpedoes and advanced surveillance equipment, the Atlantique 2 is on par with other maritime patrol aircraft such as the Russian Tu-142 or the US P-8.
Russia’s S-400 system, deployed in Kaliningrad, is a key element in the country’s western defense strategy. Capable of detecting stealth aircraft and destroying targets at a distance of up to 400 km, the S-400 locked on the Atlantique 2 target.
The incident did not escalate beyond a radar lock, but it was still sharply criticized by French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who called it an act of “unnecessary aggression.” France stressed that it would continue to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia.
French Navy Atlantique 2 maritime surveillance aircraft. Photo: CC/Tim Felce
The incident occurred as France conducted large-scale military exercises simulating a defense scenario against the risk of Russia expanding the conflict from Belarus. These exercises not only highlighted Western concerns but also demonstrated the determination to protect the European security order.
Atlantique 2 plays an important role in France's maritime security strategy. Its modern radar and sensor systems enable it to continuously monitor strategic sea lanes, protecting economic interests as well as national security. The aircraft is also equipped with advanced countermeasures such as infrared decoys to help defend against enemy missiles.
Meanwhile, Russia’s S-400 air defense system continues to play a central role in its territorial defense strategy. With its superior ability to lock on and destroy targets from long distances, the system is not only a defense tool but also a symbol of Russia’s military technological prowess.
French President Emmanuel Macron's recent statement that "all necessary measures will be taken to prevent Russia from winning" reflects Paris' strong commitment to protecting the balance of power in Europe.
S-400 air defense missile system. Photo: X/thetoitoi
The Atlantique 2, a product of Dassault Aviation, is the main long-range patrol aircraft of the French Navy, featuring maritime surveillance, anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare capabilities.
With a length of 22 meters and a wingspan of 25 meters, the aircraft is equipped with two Rolls-Royce AE 2100 turboprop engines, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 500 km/h and a range of 3,000 km.
Advanced technologies such as the Thales Searchmaster radar and integrated sonar system enable Atlantique 2 to monitor large areas of the sea and detect airborne and underwater threats.
Russia's S-400 air defense system, deployed in the strategic Kaliningrad region, is one of the most advanced defense systems in the world.
The S-400 is capable of detecting and tracking stealth targets and destroying them at a distance of up to 400 km. Kaliningrad, with its location adjacent to NATO, plays an important role in Moscow's western defense strategy, especially as NATO member states increase their military presence in the region.
Ngoc Anh (according to Bulgarian Military, The War Zone)
Source: https://www.congluan.vn/may-bay-tam-xa-nato-lot-vao-tam-ngam-cua-he-thong-phong-khong-nga-s-400-post330959.html
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