U.S. Unveils Air-Defense System Mock-Ups Used to Train Against Russia’s S-300 and S-400

On November 10, large-scale Resolute Hunter 26-1 exercises were held at Fallon Air Base in Nevada, where the U.S. Marine Corps trained in detecting and countering foreign air-defense systems.

According to Defence Blog, the training range featured full-size mock-ups of air-defense systems resembling the Russian S-300/S-400 and the Chinese HQ-9.

The mock launchers were painted in desert camouflage commonly associated with Iran’s armed forces. The chassis of the mock-up replicates the MZKT-7930, the same platform used for the S-400 system. These models were likely also used to imitate the Chinese HQ-9, given its similarity to the Russian design.

The radar, meanwhile, closely resembles the 30N6 radar from the S-300 system due to the shape of its upper antenna section.

Such surrogate systems replicate the radar signatures, sensor data, and tactics typical of Russian and Chinese equipment.

Instructors say the mock-ups allow the U.S. Marine Corps, Army, Navy, and Air Force to practice detection, targeting, and engagement procedures. Although these systems are not actually combat-capable, they accurately reproduce the appearance and electromagnetic profile of real systems.

The mock-ups are also used by electronic warfare and intelligence units for training based on real-world data.