Ukraine expert debunks Russian claims of Su‑34 missile launch
According to the Ukrainian agency Unian, Russian reports claim that they launched the Kinzhal missile for the first time using the Su-34 front-line bomber. However, aviation expert Konstantyn Krywolap stated in an interview with the Ukrainian publication Telegraf that this is impossible.
The Russians announced that, for the first time under combat conditions, the Su-34 bomber launched a Kinzhal missile towards Ukraine. Aviation expert Kostantyn Krywolap, in his conversation with Telegraf, expressed doubts about the feasibility of such an operation. He noted the size of the missile, which makes it impossible to mount on the Su-34.
The expert doubts whether the Russians told the truth about the Su-34
Krywolap emphasized that the Kinzhal missile has a diameter of 4 feet, while the space between the Su-34's nacelles is approximately 7 feet. The expert points out that this space is too narrow to accommodate the Kinzhal missile. The Kinzhal's wings could touch the ground, making installation impossible.
The expert also noted that to effectively launch a Kinzhal, the aircraft must reach a speed of 1,864 mph. Meanwhile, the Su-34 does not exceed speeds of 1,150-1,180 mph, even at high altitudes. This presents another argument against the Russians' claims.
Krywolap explained that while it might be feasible with the FAB, it is not possible with the Kinzhal missile. He pointed out that the wings would not fit into the nacelle and would also touch the ground, highlighting that its size makes it unsuitable for use with the Su-34.
Russian Kinzhals
Although the combat value of Kinzhal missiles has been questioned since the beginning of the war, they remain a significant challenge for Ukraine's air defense. The Kinzhal is characterized by a length of 23 feet and a weight of approximately 9,920 pounds. Its speed is said to reach 10 Mach, although more realistic estimates suggest a speed of about 8 Mach, translating to nearly 6,090 mph. For this reason, this missile is considered one of the most dangerous weapons in Russia's arsenal.
