In the early hours of the Russian missile attack on Kyiv, the Ukrainian air defense effectively intercepted two hypersonic Zircon missiles. This interception was confirmed by the Ukrainian Air Forces Command.
"Approximately at 10:30 in the morning, the enemy struck Kyiv with two ballistic missiles from the temporarily occupied Crimea. The targets were destroyed, and the type is being determined," they noted in the statement.
Following the interception, fragments of the missiles continued to descend over Kyiv, causing damage to multiple buildings in the Pechersk district and on the left bank of the city. Seven people sustained injuries as a result of the falling debris.
The Telegram channel monitor has relayed information indicating that the missiles traversed a distance of 580 kilometers to reach Kyiv in just three minutes, demonstrating hypersonic flight capabilities. This velocity can be calculated at 11,600 km/h or exceeding Mach 9.
This rapid speed eliminates the feasibility of employing alternative armaments like the Iskander or Kinzhal missiles. Concurrently, it corresponds with the stated specifications of the Zircon missile.
"Now we can confidently say that the Russian Armed Forces have the capability to launch these missiles from land-based platforms, which was not previously detailed," wrote military expert Alexander Kovalenko.
Developers have provided varying flight ranges for the 3M22 missile over time, ranging from 600 to 1500 kilometers, which it was anticipated to achieve at velocities of Mach 8-9. The warhead's estimated weight falls between 300 to 400 kilograms.
Despite the commencement of its development in 2011, no credible publicly available photographs of this missile have surfaced. Nevertheless, debris recovered from interceptions facilitates a more comprehensive examination of its composition.
The imagery showcases distinct features, including factory markings labeled 3M22, remnants resembling sections of the fuselage, solid-fuel propulsion systems, and potentially intact warheads.
Russia has also officially recognized the use of these missiles in the war against Ukraine. Vladimir Putin publicly announced this on February 29.
“The Zircon hypersonic system, which was not even discussed in 2018, has already been used in the battle. However, this system is already in service,” Putin said.
