Egyptian armed forces publicly displayed the launchers and radar of the S‑300VM long‑range air defence system during the inauguration of the new strategic command headquarters known as the "Octagon." This was the first official confirmation that the system is operational after years of speculation. The S‑300VM, one of Egypt’s most advanced air‑defence platforms, is designed to protect ground forces against aircraft and ballistic missiles, featuring sand‑filled launchers, an advanced radar network and the ability to engage multiple targets at ranges beyond 200 km. It joins Egypt’s integrated air‑defence network alongside the Tor‑M2, Buk‑M2 and Pantsir systems, complementing recent acquisitions of MiG‑29M fighters and Ka‑52 attack helicopters from Russia, though Western pressure halted plans to buy Su‑35 jets.