Russia’s Arctic Bases Left Exposed as Air Defenses Move to Protect Moscow

Satellite images reveal that Russia has removed S-300 and S-400 missile batteries from key Arctic bases, leaving them nearly defenseless, according to RFE/RL. The systems were pulled from long-held sites near Rogachevo and the nuclear-submarine city of Severodvinsk. The redeployment aims to protect Moscow and inland oil refineries from Ukrainian drone strikes, but it strips the Arctic of crucial air cover. The move signals a strategic shift as Russia prioritizes domestic security over its northern frontier.