Russian hypersonic Zircon missile: a 'superweapon' or overhyped threat?
A few days ago, Ukrainians from the Kiev Forensic Science Research Institute reported a Russian attack featuring the hypersonic Zircon missile. The initial analysis of the missile remnants, which reached Kiev on February 7, confirmed that the attackers have expanded their arsenal with new weapons. The British investigators updated us on the immense potential these types of missiles lend to the attackers.
2:44 PM EST, February 14, 2024
According to official sources, the hypersonic Zircon missile, which is about 30 feet long, can achieve speeds up to 9 Mach, or over 6,828 mph. Its estimated range is 621 miles. The development of such a missile was primarily intended for the Russian navy. The Russians have suggested that the missile can be launched from submarines as well as surface units.
The British are warning about Zircon missiles
Meanwhile, the British pointed out that no ships known to carry such missiles are in the Black Sea. They speculated that the Zircon was likely launched from a land-based system, potentially the K-300.
The British Ministry of Defence stated, "The K-300, a Russian land-based system for coastal defense, may have been repurposed for this attack. If its use is verified, the Ukrainian air defense could face a grave challenge due to the missile's speed and maneuverability. It's plausible the Russians are testing a new weapon system in a real conflict to build confidence and showcase capabilities."
Is Zircon truly a superweapon?
The Russian deployment of the hypersonic Zircon missile has been discussed in The Telegraph. Based in part on the above findings of the Kyiv Forensic Science Research Institute, the claims of Russians labeling Zircon as a "superweapon" have been challenged. The publication proposed that Zircon, while a potential threat, may end up like the Kinzhal missiles that were once similarly overhyped.
The newspaper argues, "Zircon may not be as formidable as it's made out to be. It's quite possible it did not fly any faster than the supersonic Calibr towards Kyiv. It may be premature to make assumptions, but Zircon could be another Kinzhal - not a game-changer as Putin claimed. It appears that the Russian leader may be misrepresenting realities once again."
