Russia’s latest air-launched cruise missiles may travel less than half the distance of their predecessors, but they pack twice the punch.
The upgraded Kh-101 nuclear-capable cruise missile — first added to Russia’s arsenal in 1995 — boasts tandem warheads, set to detonate simultaneously, according to Ukraine’s Pravda.
The updated technology was discovered after a missile downed by Ukrainian forces Friday was analyzed, Ukraine’s Defense Express reported.
The stealthy missile is designed to fly low to the ground, undermining air defense systems.
3 Residential buildings were damaged during a Russian missile and drone strike on the city of Kamianske. via REUTERS
3 A rocket is fired from the Russian army’s missile system toward Ukrainian position at an undisclosed location. AP
3 A firefighter works at a site of a Russian missile and drone strike, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine Friday. via REUTERS
The original Kh-101 weighed over 880 pounds, and was capable of hitting targets 3,400 miles away. To accommodate the addition of a second warhead, Russian engineers decreased the missile’s fuel tank size, cutting its range to 1,400 miles.
With two warheads, one of which is a fragmentation warhead, the Kh-101 now weighs more than 1,700 pounds.
While capable of destroying anti-aircraft missiles, the warhead, according to the Defense Express, also has the potential to cause devastation on the ground, resulting in human casualties.
The reports suggest Russia first started working on the missile upgrade in 2010.
Russia’s upgraded cruise missiles travel a shorter distance than their predecessors — but pack twice the punch
Recent Comments
Dubai International Airport sees 41.6 million passengers in first half of year, more than in 2019
on
Devout athletes find strength in their faith. But practicing it and elite sports can pose hurdles
on
Despite strong Lunar New Year holiday data, consumer spending in China isn’t roaring back just yet
on
Dave Portnoy: Taylor Swift’s security should ‘drag Kim Kardashian to jail’ if she attends Eras Tour
on
CONCEPT ART: New Details Revealed for Disney Cruise Line Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point Destination
on
“Completely Knocked Me Out”: Rob Lowe Recalls Boxing Match With Tom Cruise On 1983 Brat Pack Classic
on
CBS Sports, Serie A announce new TV rights deal; Paramount+ to air over 400 Italian soccer matches
on
Cam Newton’s Violent Public Incident Draws Hilarious Reaction From 3x All-Star: “Where Do I Sign Up
on
Boston College vs. Army live stream, how to watch online, CBS Sports Network channel finder, odds
on
Angel Reese Launches Foundation Dedicated To Empowering Women Through Sports & Financial Literacy
on
A weaker dollar, skyrocketing prices and ‘record’ visitor numbers: Good luck in Europe this summer
on
‘1000-Lb. Sisters’ Tammy Slaton Is Still ‘Too Large’ to Fly in a Plane Despite All the Weight Loss
on
Boebert on