 "Russia has touted its hypersonic missiles as a leap ahead of the world. Representative image/AFP")
US intelligence indicates that Russia may launch another experimental hypersonic ballistic missile in Ukraine.
Despite its advanced capabilities, Washington does not view the Oreshnik hypersonic missile as a decisive factor in the ongoing conflict.
“We assess that the Oreshnik is not a game-changer on the battlefield, but rather just another attempt by Russia to terrorise Ukraine, which will fail,” AP cited a US official as saying.
The US official noted that Russia possesses only a limited number of Oreshnik missiles, each carrying a smaller warhead compared to other missiles regularly launched at Ukraine.
The missile was previously used on November 21 against the city of Dnipro, according to Ukrainian government sources.
The Oreshnik missile
Hypersonic missiles are designed to travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound. This high velocity reduces the window for detection and interception.
Additionally, their manoeuverability enables them to alter trajectories during flight, complicating interception efforts.
The Oreshnik, whose name translates to “hazel tree” in Russian, is an intermediate-range ballistic missile reportedly capable of speeds exceeding Mach 10.
It can carry multiple warheads, each potentially equipped with submunitions, and has a range of up to 5,000 kilometers. That means that it can strike targets across Europe and parts of the United States. Russian President Vladimir Putin has asserted that the missile is “impossible to intercept.”
The potential deployment of the Oreshnik comes amid escalating tensions, with both Russia and Ukraine seeking strategic advantages. The US continues to support Ukraine’s defense efforts, recently announcing nearly $1 billion in new security aid.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsAs the conflict approaches its third year, the international community remains vigilant, monitoring developments and assessing the implications of advanced weaponry on global security dynamics.
With inputs from agencies