Vietnam has launched the S-300PMU-1 air defence missile system for the first time in 20 years, which can shoot down targets within a radius of 150 km at an altitude of up to 25 km

Vietnam has tested the S-300PMU-1 air defence system. The military launched an anti-aircraft missile for the first time in 20 years.

Here's What We Know

Vietnam's defence forces were able to launch the 48N6E missile interceptor. It can shoot down targets within a radius of 150 kilometres at a maximum altitude of 25 kilometres. The surface-to-air missile system is designed to intercept strategic cruise missiles, tactical ballistic missiles and enemy aircraft.

Vietnam ordered the S-300PMU-1 air defence systems in 2003, i.e. 11 years after their presentation. The Ministry of Defence managed to purchase the systems with 12 launchers for approximately $300 million.

In 2012, a batch of S-300PMU-2 was ordered. This happened three years after the S-300PMU-1s received new 96L6E radar stations as part of the modernisation programme.