New reality on Ukraine's frontline: Russia's upgraded missiles withstanding portable anti-aircraft systems

The Ukrainian Defense Express discusses new CH-101 missiles, explaining that their production in the last quarter does not necessarily indicate that the Russian Federation's army is facing issues with weapons access.

A relatively recent missile could indicate that the Russian defense industry is sufficiently productive, managing to consistently supply new missiles to the front line. This does not imply that the Russian military is low on supplies. In fact, it indicates quite the opposite - particularly because the aggressor continues to attack without rationing ammunition.

Ukrainian analyst Serhij Zgurety, referenced by Defense Express, explains that the local institution tied to the Ministry of Justice, responsible for analyzing each Russian strike, has inspected the missile fragments used in the attacks.

Upon the observation, it was found that modules not previously utilized were present within the CH-101. These are thermal devices, believed to be designed to hinder portable anti-aircraft missile systems (MANPADS) from detecting and, consequently, intercepting Russian missiles. However, as stressed by the Ukrainians, these additional components within the missiles do not affect more advanced air defense systems.

"The main target for this CH-101 missile upgrade is MANPADS, i.e., missiles of anti-aircraft systems with a thermally guided warhead (...). With other guidance systems, the CH-101 modernization has no effect," explains the Ukrainian expert.

Notably, the CH-101 is a weapon engineered with stealth technology. It measures approximately 24.3 feet in length and weighs around 2.6 tons. One missile can carry almost 1102.3 pounds of warhead and reach an impressive range of up to 2796.16 miles.

The specifications of this Russian missile clarify that the CH-101 uses a blend of satellite and inertial guidance for navigation. This includes a radio altimeter and an optical system. The optical system's role involves monitoring the terrain over which it is flying to ensure the greatest possible precision during its strike.