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The travel sentry® red diamond is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla , Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- John Vermilye, founder of Travel Sentry and the creator of the Travel Sentry Approved lock, worked with the industry to establish a standards-based system that permits passengers to securely lock their bags yet enables the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) a safe, efficient, and damage-free inspection. As a result, Travel Sentry made possible a new era of airport baggage screening, creating standards to solve issues in travel security. This year, Travel Sentry celebrates its 20th Anniversary.

The Travel Sentry System was first implemented in all US airports in 2003 and is now in over 750 airports globally, in 68 countries and used by over 2 billion passengers worldwide.

When a passenger has checked in their luggage with airline staff, it is passed to an underground facility where the luggage is screened before it is loaded onto the plane. When scanned, if there are unresolved issues, the luggage is automatically diverted to a manual screening position. At any airport using the Travel Sentry system, bags with a Travel Sentry TSA lock can be opened with secure tools by security agents, relocked, and sent on their way without delay. These standards, therefore, solve issues for airlines, airports, security agencies, the travelling public and over 50% of global passenger traffic.

Travel Sentry works with lock manufacturers, luggage manufacturers and brands worldwide, and its expertise offers solutions to over 1000 licensees. The Travel Sentry Red Diamond adds quality to these products. In Travel Sentry's 20 years, over one billion products worldwide have been equipped with its Red Diamond. Consumers continually trust Travel Sentry because they know the company will stay true to its founding promise of "Safe Inspection, No Damage". The Red Diamond remains a global symbol of trust and quality.

The Travel Sentry team has hundreds of years of combined aviation and travel experience. Keeping this in mind, we initiated the first-ever product awards, where the team nominated the products, and the public voted for them. The awards acknowledged the industry's quality, innovation, product design, and customer service.

Looking ahead to the next 20 years, Travel Sentry will use its central position to introduce solutions to problems such as lost luggage and improved baggage tracking and handling by airlines while implementing the system in more countries and giving travellers the best experience wherever they travel.

www.travelsentry.org

Contact: Maya Hall , [email protected]

About, https://www.travelsentry.org/company/

Video - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2293240/Travel_Sentry.mp4

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-travel-sentry-red-diamond-is-celebrating-its-20th-anniversary-302006153.html

SOURCE Travel Sentry Inc

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The Global Lost & Found Solution

Register your item or report a found item

Enter the Unique Identification code here

Travel Sentry is the leader in lost & found services with already over 6,000,000 ID codes issued by OKOBAN in the past 10 years.

With Travel Sentry ™ ID, this unmatched experience is now boosted by the globaly recognized Red Diamond logo.

With its simple and free online process, TSID is also used by SITA WorldTracer, in over 2800 airports Lost & Founds offices, to contact owners of lost properties.

HOW IT WORKS

Travel Sentry™ ID is a unique ID code that is free to register and valid for life.

TSID creates a link between owners and their property, assigning unique codes to any item that needs to be protected from accidental loss. Your chances of being reunited with lost property are significantly improved when using TSID.

Members Offers

Testimonials

"I did get my laptop back after misplacing it. I was very impressed with how efficiently the system worked."

"I left a backpack with my computer inside at a public place (I took it out of my car and forgot to put it in again). Someone found it and although my name was written on quite a few things within the backpack, he couldn't find an address or a phone number. I had an TSID-tag on my computer and he contacted me via TSID. I met him a few days later to pick up my things."

"I had loaned my suitcase to my mother-in-law, and she had taken the wrong case at the carousel, which she only discovered after arriving at the hotel. At the same time she returned to the airport to collect the suitcase, I received an email from TSID. By the time I contacted her, the case was settled, but I can say that the system worked as designed, and if it was a different situation, it would have been a great help."

"It worked quite well. A coworker found my phone and used the TSID system to notify me. It was great that I was able to get my phone back so quickly!"

"Your system worked as advertised!, Great relief. Thanks!!!!Without the TSID tracking stickers, which the finder called there would likely have been no chance of retrieving our device. We are grateful! AND feeling SO SMART for having installed and utilized the TSID System!"

Where can I find my Identification Code?

The 12 digits code can be found on the tag

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Welcome to Travel Sentry Group. Lock in your vacation today.

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15 March 2024

Understanding TSA Locks: Essential Travel Knowledge

Traveling can be stressful, especially when it comes to keeping your belongings safe. With the rise in airport security measures, many travelers have questions about TSA locks and their purpose.

In this article, we will explain what they are and why it is important for your luggage.

Answering Your Questions

What is a tsa lock.

These are a type of lock accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for use on luggage. Their design allows TSA agents to open the lock using a specialist tool. Allowing them to inspect the contents of your luggage without damaging the lock or your belongings.

TSA locks are identifiable by their distinctive red diamond logo, the Travel Sentry Red Diamond .

Why Use a TSA Lock?

The main reason to use this specific lock is to prevent damage to your luggage. If your locked luggage uses a non-TSA accepted lock, TSA agents may break the lock in order to inspect your bag. This can be frustrating and costly for travelers.

By using a TSA lock, you can ensure that your luggage remains secure. Whilst still allowing TSA agents to perform necessary inspections.

How to Use a TSA Lock Padlock?

Using this lock is simple. (NOTE: the inset for the next steps – better format.  Also, these instructions do not follow exactly the instructions we post elsewhere – might be better to align them)

Set a Combination

First, make sure your lock is set to the default combination, which is usually 000.

Insert the Shackle

Then, insert the shackle into the lock and push down until it clicks into place.

Set Your New Combination

Next, set your desired combination by turning the dials to your chosen numbers.

Lock Your Luggage

Finally, add the lock to your luggage and scramble the dials to protect your combination from being seen. To unlock the lock, simply enter your chosen combination and pull up on the shackle.

To learn how to use other types of locks, visit our help page.

Who Are The TSA?

The TSA is a US government agency created in 2001 to improve and enhance airport security. Its main responsibility is to ensure the security of the nation’s transportation systems. Focusing on air travel.

Learn more about the TSA in our previous article on understanding the TSA .

Types of TSA Locks

There are several types of TSA locks available on the market. The most common type is a combination lock, which requires a specific combination to open. Another type is a key lock, which requires a key to open. Some luggage comes with an integrated lock, but padlocks are also available if your luggage does not have a built-in lock. There are also TSA cable locks on the market that allow you to secure multiple zippers or pieces of luggage together.

View our previous article explaining the various types of locks .

Where to Buy TSA Locks

You can find these locks in most travel stores, luggage stores, and even some-many department stores and pharmacies. They are also available for purchase online. When purchasing one, make sure the lock is TSA accepted and has the red diamond logo.

For more insight into finding the perfect security suitcase view our guide .

TSA Locks and International Travel

These locks are not only useful for domestic travel, but also for international travel. Many countries have similar security measures in place and recognise the TSA lock. View which countries accept TSA Locks here . However, it is always a good idea to check with the country’s specific regulations before traveling.

By understanding what a TSA lock is and its purpose, you can ensure a stress-free and secure travel experience. Make sure to invest in a TSA lock for your luggage before your next trip.

Have any other questions about TSA locks? Let us know in the comments.

Related Articles

Can you take food through airport security.

Traveling can be stressful, especially when it comes to navigating airport security. There are strict guidelines and regulations around air travel. With all of this it can be confusing to know what items you can take through security and which ones are not. One common question that travelers often have is whether or not they can take food through airport security.

Essential Tips For Traveling With Family

Traveling with your family can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming. From packing to navigating airports and keeping your kids entertained, there are many challenges that come with family travel. However, with the right tips and tricks, you can make your family trip less stressful and enjoyable for everyone.

February 2024

What To Do If Your Luggage Is Damaged?

Travelling can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also come with its fair share of challenges. One of the most frustrating things that can happen while travelling is having your luggage damaged. Whether it's a broken zipper, a missing wheel, or a cracked handle, damaged luggage can put a damper on your trip.

Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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Turn Your Curiosity Into Discovery

Latest facts.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Russia's hunted A-50 command planes are its eyes over Ukraine. Here's how it compares to the Boeing E-3 Sentry.

• Ukraine's most significant aircraft kills in 2024 are two Russian A-50 command planes.
• The A-50 can track over 150 targets simultaneously and relay them to a dozen fighters jets.
• The E-3 Sentry fills a similar role, and has played an active role in Ukraine from the sidelines.

Ukraine's embattled air defense network started 2024 with a string of successes.

In the first three months of the year, the country claimed to have intercepted at least 1,011 missiles and loitering munitions, and shot down at least 16 jets of the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) — 13 of which were downed in just two weeks.

The kills include two modern Su-35 fighters and 12 valuable Su-34 fighter-bombers. But the most significant kills may have been two Beriev A-50 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft — platforms that carry no offensive weapons.

The loss of the two A-50s represents an enormous blow to the VKS and its operations in Ukraine.

Flying since the earliest days of the war, both sides have utilized early warning and control aircraft to enhance their capabilities and defeat each other's planes and missiles. Although Ukraine didn't inherit any A-50s from the Soviet Union, its American-made equivalent, the E-3 Sentry, has quietly played an important role in Ukraine's campaign to defend itself from Russian attacks.

The Mainstay

AEW&C aircraft are aerial radar stations meant to detect and track enemy weapon systems — namely aircraft, missiles, and naval ships. They also function as command-and-control centers from which commanders can distribute information and commands to subordinates in the field.

They originated in the latter half of World War II, when the Western Allies were finding ways to track incoming threats (particularly those aimed at ships) such as bombers, U-boats, V-1 rockets, and kamikaze aircraft.

With the development of nuclear-armed intercontinental bombers and ballistic missiles in the Cold War, AEW&C aircraft became essential. The USSR's first AEW&C aircraft, the Tupolev Tu-126, was designed to patrol Russia's 15,000-mile northern coastline for American nuclear bombers and ICBMs.

But the Tu-126 lacked look-down capability, meaning it couldn't detect or track low-flying objects underneath it. Moreover, by the late 1970s, its electronic suite was outdated.

In 1985, the Tu-126 was replaced by the A-50. Built by the Beriev Design Bureau and first flown in 1978, it is based on the Ilyushin Il-76 airframe and has a flight crew of five. Called the "Mainstay" by NATO, it has a ceiling of 40,000 feet, a range of over 4,000 miles, and a flight endurance of around 6 hours, which can be extended with aerial refueling.

Its central feature is the 32-foot wide, 6-foot-high rotodome mounted on aerodynamic struts on the rear section of the fuselage. Known as the "Mushroom" by the crew, it is operated by ten specialists and is capable of providing 360-degree scanning coverage.

In its most upgraded version, the A-50 is capable of tracking over 150 targets simultaneously at ranges as far as 400 miles, including a limited ability to detect and track certain ground targets as well. The A-50 can also coordinate and send guidance data to up to 12 friendly jets simultaneously. For example, it can relay targeting information on a Ukrainian aircraft or static targets to VKS jets, or alert Russia's ground-based air defenses to an incoming missile.

The USSR reportedly built as many as five A-50s a year, with about 42 being built by 1992, when the breakup of the Soviet Union halted production. It has had limited export success; one A-50 airframe was sold to China, but it was equipped with a Chinese-made radar and redesignated as the KJ-2000. Similarly, three A-50EIs were sold to India in 2004, though they were fitted with Israeli-made radars. In 2016, India ordered two more A-50 airframes.

Despite halting production, the Russians have been upgrading their remaining A-50s. In 2007, the A-50M variant was tested, reportedly featuring an upgraded radar and digital electronic systems. Another upgraded version, the A-50U, was introduced in 2011, and features new computers, satellite communications, a modernized radar, and new engines.

In 1991, Russian A-50s were deployed over the Black Sea during Operation Desert Storm to monitor aircraft in the US-led coalition that were flying bombing missions from Turkey. They have since served over the skies of Chechnya during both Chechen wars, helped coordinate Russian air operations over Georgia in 2008, and have been deployed to Syria as part of Russia's involvement in the Syrian Civil War.

The counterpart to the A-50 is the American-made E-3 Sentry . Also known as the Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), it was created by Boeing and replaced the US Air Force's previous AEW&C aircraft, the EC-121 Warning Star .

First flown in 1976, the E-3 was adopted by the Air Force in 1977, and began flying monitoring missions for North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).

Based on a modified civilian Boeing 707 airframe, the Sentry has a flight crew of four, a ceiling of 30,000 feet, and a range of around 5,700 miles. It can fly continuously for about eight hours, but is capable of longer flights thanks to its aerial refueling ability.

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Like the A-50, the centerpiece of the E-3 is its rotodome. Nicknamed the "Oreo," the radome is 30 feet in diameter and 6 feet high. It is capable of providing a complete 360-degree view of everything within a more than 250-mile radius, from the surface of the earth to the stratosphere. This extensive ground search allows it to play much more of a role in air-to-ground targeting than the A-50.

The E-3's crew size is dependent on its exact mission. Capable of carrying up to 39 personnel, a typical mission usually calls for a crew between 17 and 25. In addition to detecting and tracking targets, the Sentry acts as a command-and-control platform, and is capable of delivering combat data and orders directly to friendly assets.

The E-3 has become a silent workhorse since it was adopted. It has been deployed as part of nearly every military operation the US has undertaken since its introduction, conducted radar coverage flights for NORAD, supported anti-drug trafficking missions in Latin America, and has occasionally tagged along with the president as he travels to foreign countries.

E-3s have also been sent to allies and partners as a way to show support and provide assurance during times of crisis. They were deployed to South Korea after President Park Chung-hee was assassinated in 1979 and in Egypt in 1981 after the assassination of President Anwar Sadat. They were also deployed to Saudi Arabia throughout the Iran-Iraq War.

In all, 68 E-3s were built between 1977 and 1992. It performed so well that it has been adopted by multiple countries.

France operates four E-3s acquired between 1991 and 1992, while Saudi Arabia operates five acquired between 1986 and 1987. The UK Royal Air Force operated seven E-3s between 1991 and 2021, three of which were sold to Chile in 2022.

The US Air Force operates 18 E-3s. The second-largest customer and operator is NATO, with 14 Sentries in service with the NATO Airborne Early Warning and Control Force, a specialized multinational unit tasked with monitoring NATO airspace comprised of crew and support personnel from 19 member states.

Ukraine and future

Both the A-50 and the E-3 have played an active role in the war in Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022.

Russian A-50s have been monitoring Ukrainian airspace for Ukrainian Air Force jets and surface-to-air missiles. They have also helped Russian kinetic strike operations by providing live targeting data and coordinates to anti-aircraft missiles, VKS strike aircraft, cruise and ballistic missiles, and drones.

As an AEW&C aircraft, the A-50 is not supposed to be deployed close to the frontline of active combat zones . Yet on January 14, Ukraine managed to shoot down an A-50 as it was flying over the Sea of Azov. A month later, a second A-50 was claimed , this time over Russia itself.

The shoot downs are as devastating as they are surprising, since Russia is unlikely to have many remaining A-50s able to replace the losses.

Estimates vary, but Russia reportedly started the war with as many as ten active A-50s, with seven reportedly being A-50Us. In addition to the two shot down, a third A-50 was reportedly damaged in Belarus last year .

Russia has said that it will restart production of the A-50, but those efforts are likely to be complicated by Western sanctions on critical electrical components. The sanctions issues have already been blamed for delays in production of the A-50's replacement , the A-100. The Ukrainians have also targeted the factory where A-50s are produced with drone strikes.

The E-3, meanwhile, has also played an active role in the war in Ukraine, although it has done so without crossing into Ukrainian airspace.

Flying over Poland, Romania, and the Black Sea, NATO and Allied E-3s have surveilled Russian activity in Ukraine, detecting the movement of Russian jets, ships, incoming missiles and drones, and sometimes even ground units. Ukraine has been more effective at destroying critical sites like air defenses and command posts well beyond Russia's frontlines, and it's plausible that intelligence gathered by E-3 radars and sensors may contribute to this targeting.

The Russians have made their disapproval of the E-3 operations known. Last November, the Russians threatened to destroy a French Air Force E-3 that was operating over the Black Sea in what a French military spokesman described as "a particularly aggressive radio exchange."

Their importance notwithstanding, the E-3s are in need of replacement.

With an average age of around 44 years, maintaining the E-3s is only getting more difficult — especially since the airframe it is based on was originally designed and built in the late 1950s and hasn't been produced since 1991.

Last year, the US Air Force announced that it had selected the Boeing E-7 Wedgetail as the E-3's intended replacement. The service hopes to acquire 26 of the new planes by 2032, with the first planned to be introduced in 2027.

NATO announced a similar plan last November, with plans to acquire six E-7s, the first of which will enter service by 2031. The UK, which has retired all of its E-3s, is also in the process of acquiring the E-7, which is already in service with the air forces of Australia, South Korea, and Turkey.

Benjamin Brimelow is a freelance journalist covering international military and defense issues. He holds a master's degree in Global Affairs with a concentration in international security from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. His work has appeared in Business Insider and the Modern War Institute at West Point.

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