Ukraine's missile advancements signal major strategic shift
Ukraine is intensively developing its missile arsenal. Among the upgraded systems are the Buriewij and Wilcha, as well as the popular Neptunes. The latter are highlighted by the military expert Konstantyn Kryvolap, as cited by the Ukrainian agency Unian. He notes their upgrades.
Ukraine is continually working on the development of its missile arsenal. According to Unian, specific results are expected in the second half of the year that will impact the situation on the front lines. Aviation expert Konstantyn Kryvolap points to the significance of both old and new missile models.
New missile models. Significant improvement
One of the key achievements is the new version of the Neptune missile, which can cover a distance of 400 kilometres with a warhead weighing about 350 kilogrammes. The previous version had a range of 300 kilometres and carried a payload weighing up to 150 kilogrammes. Kryvolap adds that, in his opinion, in the future, Neptune will be able to reach a range of 675 kilometres.
The expert also calculates the potential production of Neptune missiles in Ukraine. In his view, it is 50–70 units per month, with the target being a monthly production capacity of 100 units. Kryvolap also emphasises the importance of ballistic projects, such as Sapsan and Grom-2, which can reach a range of 500 kilometres.
The Buriewij and Wilcha systems also have developmental prospects, with capabilities to strike targets at ranges of 130–150 kilometres. Kryvolap emphasises that these projects have significant potential and can significantly impact Ukraine's defensive capabilities.
R-360 Neptune missiles
Let us recall that the R-360 Neptune missile, part of the RK-360MC coastal missile system, was created to protect Ukraine from threats posed by the Black Sea Fleet. Neptune was first tested in 2018, and its initial units were delivered to Ukrainian forces in 2020.
A significant advantage of Neptune is its resistance to radio interference. It uses both satellite and inertial navigation systems. The built-in radio altimeter enables the R-360 Neptune missile to operate at altitudes ranging from 3 to 10 metres. At these altitudes, the missile cannot be detected by enemy radars as it flies toward its target.
