Russian forces intercepted Ukrainian FP-5 Flamingo cruise missiles after they were detected by an A-50U airborne early warning and control aircraft, according to the U.S.-based Military Watch Magazine.

The magazine reported that the attack took place overnight on July 5. Russia’s Aerospace Forces used the upgraded A-50U, equipped with modern radar systems, to spot missiles heading toward Udmurtia. Once the targets were identified, Russian air defense units and aircraft were able to shoot down more than five missiles.

Military Watch Magazine also highlighted the capabilities of the modernized aircraft. According to the publication, the A-50U has a 15–20% longer flight range than the basic version and can remain airborne for more than nine hours without refueling.

The aircraft carries the Shmel-2 radio-technical system, which, according to the magazine, increases target detection range by 33%. This allows the A-50U to track up to 300 objects and provide targeting data to 40 interceptor aircraft. By comparison, the original version could monitor up to 200 targets and support 20 aircraft with targeting information.

Earlier, on June 2, reports said that a modernized A-50U had been delivered to Russian forces.

According to open data, the upgraded radar can detect bombers at a range of up to 600–650 kilometers, fighter aircraft at up to 400 kilometers, and ballistic and cruise missiles at distances of up to 200–300 kilometers.