õhukaitse

Õhukaitse refers to the defense of airspace against aerial threats. It encompasses a wide range of military and civilian systems designed to detect, track, and neutralize aircraft, missiles, and drones. The primary objective of õhukaitse is to protect friendly forces, critical infrastructure, and civilian populations from attack from the air.

The systems involved in õhukaitse can be broadly categorized into several types. Air surveillance radar plays a crucial role in early warning, detecting and identifying potential threats at long distances. Once a threat is identified, surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems are often employed to engage and destroy it. These SAM systems vary in range and capability, from short-range, man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) to long-range, sophisticated integrated air defense networks. Anti-aircraft artillery (AAA) also remains a component of some õhukaitse capabilities, particularly for close-in defense.

In addition to kinetic means, electronic warfare (EW) is an increasingly important aspect of õhukaitse. EW systems can disrupt enemy communications, radar, and guidance systems, thereby degrading their ability to conduct air operations. Furthermore, fighter aircraft equipped with air-to-air missiles are a vital part of air defense, providing a mobile and flexible response to aerial threats. Civilian air traffic control systems also contribute to overall airspace awareness, though their primary focus is on safety rather than defense. Effective õhukaitse often relies on the integration of these diverse systems to create a layered and robust defense.