Russia to start mass production of 1,000km Iskander missiles
Russia plans to commence mass production of the new Iskander-1000 missile system, which may alter the balance of power in the region, reports Bulgarian Military. The system will have an increased range of 1,000 kilometres. This will put many targets in Eastern and Central Europe within the Kremlin's reach. What else is known about the Iskander-1000?
The Iskander-1000 system is the latest offering from the Russian defence industry, aiming to significantly strengthen the missile capabilities of the Russian Federation. The solution first came to light in May 2024, and its mass production is set to commence soon. According to reports, the Iskander-1000 is an advancement of the previous 9K720 Iskander-M system, characterized primarily by an increased strike range, reaching up to 1,000 kilometres.
Russians have a new version of the Iskander
The key changes in the new system include the implementation of an improved rocket engine, based on modern technologies and a new fuel mixture, which allows for achieving greater speed and range. Additionally, the Iskander-1000 is to be equipped with an advanced guidance system, combining inertial navigation with satellite correction and the possibility of radar guidance in the final flight phase. These solutions are intended to ensure high strike precision, with an error margin not exceeding 5 metres.
The introduction of the Iskander-1000 to the arsenal of the Russian armed forces could significantly affect the balance of power in the region, notes Bulgarian Military. Theoretically, the 1,000-kilometre range allows targeting most countries in Central and Eastern Europe, including Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic. The system may also be used to attack Ukrainian airbases, which house F-16 fighters. This power projection capability raises concerns among NATO countries, especially in the context of the potential deployment of these systems in the Kaliningrad region.
According to Bulgarian Military, the choice of locations where Russia will deploy the Iskander-1000 systems will reflect its strategic priorities and also indicate areas where the Kremlin wants to dominate or deter potential adversaries. It may also form part of Russia's political strategy, where a demonstration of strength and capabilities becomes an element of negotiations.
