What is Russia's intention in deploying the S-400 'fire dragon' around Moscow?

In response to the arrival of American soldiers and tanks as part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) troop expansion program, Russia has begun deploying S-400 missile systems around the capital Moscow.

Photo: Russian Ministry of Defense

The American magazine Atlantico commented that the deployment of the S-400 is a symbolic response to the presence of NATO troops in Poland and the Baltic states.

NATO troops were deployed due to concerns about Moscow's potential military intervention in the region, but the Kremlin, paradoxically, views these very troops as a threat in this part of Europe, where Russia's position has somewhat weakened since the Cold War.

In other words, each side fears that the other is planning a military invasion, although in reality, no one likely wants military conflict.

The decision to deploy S-400s near Moscow, rather than on the outskirts of Saint Petersburg, has the specific meaning that no NATO aircraft can penetrate Russian territory, let alone reach the capital.

Furthermore, by choosing to deploy the S-400, the most modern multi-purpose missile system possessed by the Russian Ministry of Defense, Russian President Vladimir Putin wanted to demonstrate that Russia remains a world power, capable of competing militarily with European and American powers.

According to TPO