The SA-12 system became operational in the mid-1980Æs, and was the worldÆs first operational Anti-Tactical Ballistic Missile (ATBM) system. The SA-12a is a dual role system, capable of engaging aircraft as well as tactical ballistic missiles. Naturally, compromises must be made when designing such a system, with the result that the SA-12a cannot engage targets below 250 m (900 ft.) altitude. SA-12 batteries are normally assigned to protect important targets such as airfields and command centers, due to their long range and high lethality.%n
