What could Turkey’s latest S-400 missile tests mean?

Last year, Turkey bought the Russian S-400 anti-aircraft defence system, in spite of fierce objections from the United States. In early October, S-400 units were being taken to the Black Sea, near Sinop in northern Turkey, for another round of tests that are likely to renew concerns among Turkey’s NATO allies and its neighbours. What is the S-400 system? Known as “Triumph” in Russia and “Growler” by NATO members, the S-400 surface-to-air defence system is one of the most advanced in the world. Medium to long-range, its detection radar can spot and track incoming aircraft, directing a barrage of missiles at their targets to a range of 400km (249 miles). By contrast, the US Patriot can only fire one missile at a time and go a quarter of the distance. The S-400 can engage low-flying targets as well as those at high altitudes, and it can destroy incoming missiles that move at high speeds. It is highly capable and is much sought after. Its missiles are highly manoeuvrable, reaching speeds of up to Mach 14, or 14 times the speed of sound, and can turn sharply, engaging and destroying targets no matter what the target tries to do. In short, it is deadly. US, NATO concerns A key NATO member and an important US ally, Turkey was considered an integral part of the F-35 stealth fighter programme and was earmarked to be one of the first countries to receive these advanced fighters. It was also in the market for a decent air defence system. Washington’s reluctance to sell the US Patriot air defence system to Turkey, along with the Patriot’s patchy operational record, made Turkey turn elsewhere for alternatives. style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; top: 0; bottom: 0; right: 0; left: 0;">