The role of Russian air and missile defense systems

Abstract Russia’s nuclear and missile defense capabilities ensure its status on the global stage. In addition to protecting the homeland, contemporary Russia’s air and missile defense systems (AMDS) are harnessed as tools to undermine the West and contribute to the Kremlin’s global ties. Since the Cold War, Russia has sought to establish a global footprint; AMDS has served the Russian state as a reliable agent to expand its influence while simultaneously constraining that of the West, and in particular, the United States. Understanding how Russia employs AMDS will prove crucial to comprehending Russia’s global objectives and interests.