Russia reinforces Kerch bridge defense: Pantsir-S1M air defenses appear on Tuzla island

This was reported by the Center of Journalistic Investigations.

According to the report, two towers about 30-35 meters above sea level were equipped with Pantsir-S1M air defense missile and gun systems.

This air defense system can be placed on tracked and wheeled chassis, as well as installed permanently, creating a “dome” of security over the facility with a 15 km height and 20 km radius. This is according to the tactical and technical characteristics of this system. In addition, they can be combined into groups to increase the radius of protective coverage.

For the first time, the Center of Journalistic Investigations recorded the deployment of Pantsir-S1M on the Kerch Bridge in early September. This is an export version with an armored cab on the KAMAZ-53958 chassis, which has an increased range and height of engagement of air targets.

“It looks like the Russians will continue to install such towers along the bridge, as a dozen similar transformer sections were spotted on the construction site from the Kerch side,” the statement said.

The occupiers are also installing metal “hedgehogs” in the sea to protect against attacks by marine drones.

• On August 28, pro-Ukrainian residents of the temporarily occupied Crimea shared information about the Pantsir-S1 air defense system, which Russian terrorists deployed right on the Kerch Bridge.