Russian missile misfire: Ch‑22 falls within own borders
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 February 1, a Ch-22 Raduga missile was launched from the long-range Tu-22M3 bomber. However, it malfunctioned and did not reach its target. The missile 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 as well as civilian areas.
History and development of Ch-22 missiles
The Ch-22 missiles were introduced by the USSR 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 instance, in the 1970s, versions with nuclear warheads, Ch-22MA and Ch-22PSI, were developed. These modernizations increased their effectiveness on the modern battlefield.
The Ch-22 missile is a powerful rocket, measuring 36 feet in length and weighing over 11,000 pounds, with 2,094 pounds dedicated to the warhead. After detaching from the carrier, the missile ascends to an altitude of about 66,000 feet and subsequently accelerates to a speed of approximately Mach 3 (about 2,237 mph). In the final phase of the attack, this speed increases to Mach 4 (about 3,045 mph), striking the target with significant destructive force due to the missile's initial weight.
The range of the Ch-22 exceeds 310 miles, making it a formidable 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 have enhanced their capabilities in this area.
