Ukraine under fire from suspected Russian 'superweapon': hypersonic 3M22 Zircon missile
In the attack on Kyiv carried out yesterday, Russian forces are alleged to have utilized a "superweapon." This refers to the hypersonic missile 3M22 Zircon, designed to supersede the heavy anti-ship missile P-700. This missile can hit top speeds of approximately 9997 kilometers per hour and has an effective combat range of around 999 kilometers.
High-speed and manoeuvrable Zircon
The Zircon missile is a maneuverable, anti-ship projectile powered by a rocket-air engine. Its primary mission profile includes taking out naval vessels and land-based targets.
Ukraine's public broadcaster, Suspilne, reported that investigators discovered remnants of one downed missile that had not previously been encountered in combat situations.
The Ukrainian Air Force commander, Yuri Ignat, acknowledged these reports and concurred that Russia might have deployed a different class of missile during their attack. However, he has requested patience as experts work on examining the pieces of the puzzle.
As per information from the Defence Express, the troublesome element of identification arising from debris from the missile is minuscule. RBK-Ukraine states that even within Russia, the status of this missile is not yet officially designated. Though there have been reports of it being commissioned for the military, no formal decree supporting these claims has been issued.
Putin crowned Zircon as a "superweapon"
In line with the Russian Federation's strategy, the Zircon missile is set to replace the bulky Harpoon anti-ship missile.
This year, Russia unveiled a prototype of a mobile ground launcher capable of firing both Onyx and Zircon missiles. The precise whereabouts and designation of this system are yet to be known. Experts predict it to resemble the Bastion system, fitted with a couple of these missiles.
Russians were first introduced to Zicron missiles by their leader, Vladimir Putin, in 2019 when he grandiosely labeled them as "superweapons."
The onslaught carried out by Russia yesterday led to five fatalities and left 48 injured.
