Ukraine's "Long Neptune" missile: A game changer against Russia
Volodymyr Zelensky announced that the Ukrainian army has a new weapon. The "Long Neptune" is a missile with a range of 620 miles, and thanks to its remarkable precision, it can be used far beyond the front line—for example, on Russian territory.
The President of Ukraine conveyed on social media that Ukraine has developed a missile with a range of 620 miles. "We have tangible results," wrote Zelensky. "The long Neptune missile was tested and successfully used in combat. A new Ukrainian missile, precise strike," he added.
Precise strike on the Russians
The "Long Neptune" is the latest Ukrainian cruise missile. The original R-360 Neptune was developed as an anti-ship missile, but Ukrainian engineers adapted it for strikes on land targets, significantly increasing its potential.
The development of the long-range version allows for attacks on Russian military and critical infrastructure, particularly deep behind the front line. Thanks to modernization, the range of the "Long Neptune" has increased to approximately 620 miles, allowing for attacks on key targets in Russia, such as refineries, military bases, and logistics hubs.
Key modernizations
The new version differs from the original Neptune in several aspects:
• Range: The original Neptune had a maximum range of about 174–186 miles, while the "Long Neptune" reaches up to 620 miles, placing it in the same category as missiles like the American Tomahawk.
• Propulsion: It uses an enhanced jet engine, allowing for greater fuel efficiency and a longer flight.
• Guidance system: Utilizes advanced inertial and satellite navigation, allowing for precise strikes on strategically significant targets.
• Flight modes: Can operate at very low altitudes, using the terrain to hide from radars, and also perform maneuvers to evade air defenses.
• Warhead: Likely includes various types of warheads, such as fragmentation explosives, making it effective against military and industrial infrastructure.
Russia's most modern refinery ablaze
For the first time, the "Long Neptune" was likely used to attack the refinery in Tuapse, a key facility for processing oil for the Russian Black Sea Fleet. This strike has serious consequences for Russian logistics and fuel supply.
The attack took place on Thursday night (March 13/14). "There was a fire in a fuel tank at the base. I am on site. According to preliminary information, there are no fatalities or injuries. The situation is under control," reported Sergey Boyko, head of the Tuapse urban district.
The refinery in Tuapse is crucial for the Russian army as it supplies fuel to the Black Sea Fleet and military infrastructure in the southern part of the country. It is part of the supply chain for fuel for military equipment and aviation, with the capacity to process about 12 million tons of oil annually.
