Russian missile mishap: Ch‑22 explodes on home soil
The Ch-22 Raduga missile, launched by the Russians from a Tu-22M3 bomber, malfunctioned and, instead of reaching Ukraine, fell in the Lipetsk region on Russian territory, reports Military Portal on Facebook. Social media has surfaced with recordings showing the moment of the missile's explosion.
During the Russian attack on Ukraine, which took place on 1 February at 8:00 AM GMT, a Ch-22 Raduga missile was launched from the long-range Tu-22M3 bomber. However, it malfunctioned and did not reach its target. The rocket fell within Russian territory, in the Lipetsk region. Missiles of this type, used by the Russians to attack Ukrainian cities, pose a serious threat to critical infrastructure and civilian areas.
History and development of Ch-22 missiles
The USSR began using Ch-22 missiles in the 1950s in response to the British Blue Steel system. The first prototypes appeared in 1962, and they were officially introduced for use on Tu-22 bombers in 1967. Since then, the missiles have undergone numerous modifications. For example, in the 1970s, versions with nuclear warheads, Ch-22MA and Ch-22PSI, were developed. These modernisations increased their effectiveness on the modern battlefield.
The Ch-22 missile is a powerful rocket, measuring approximately 11 metres long and weighing over 5,000 kilograms, with about 950 kilograms dedicated to the warhead. After detaching from the carrier, the missile ascends to an altitude of about 20,000 metres and subsequently accelerates to a speed of approximately Mach 3 (about 3,600 km/h). In the final phase of the attack, this speed increases to Mach 4 (about 4,900 km/h), and it strikes the target at this speed, generating enormous destruction due to the missile's initial weight.
The Ch-22's range exceeds 500 kilometres, making it a powerful offensive tool. Designed to be carried by Tu-22M3 bombers, these missiles can be launched from a long distance, including from Russian territory, making them difficult to intercept. Before acquiring Western anti-aircraft systems such as Patriot or SAMP/T, the Ukrainians had no means to intercept the Ch-22 Raduga. Only the weapons provided by the West enhanced their capabilities in this area.
