SAM Radars
Soviet early warning systems during World War II had relied primarily on visual and sound methods, although some radar equipment was apparently used. Still, the technology was available. During the later years of the war, the Soviets received samples and/or significant information on nearly all of the major U.S. and British radars which were in operation. This included the U.S. SCR-584 fire control radar, the British searchlight control radar "Elsie," and a series of others. Possession or knowledge of these radars enabled the Soviets to produce similar models of their own.
From their experience in World War II, the Soviets determined that they would need an integrated, radar-based early warning system. This led to the fielding of an extensive radar early warning system by 1950. Soviet research, after a period of ample time to assimilate foreign technology and as a response to the increasing bomber threat, showed a marked increase in new or improved radar systems from 1952 to 1955. By 1955, the system afforded continuous coverage in fair depth for the entire country with the exception of the least vulnerable portions of the national frontier. It also encompassed Eastern Europe.
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