Russia fired its Oreshnik hypersonic, nuclear-capable intermediate-range ballistic missile against targets in Kyiv on May 24, 2024 [1, 2].
The deployment of this weapon signals a shift in strategic capabilities, as the missile is designed to evade existing air defenses and strike targets across Europe [2, 3].
This strike marked the third time the Oreshnik missile was fired during the war on Ukraine [1]. The weapon is described as an intermediate-range ballistic missile capable of reaching hypersonic speeds of Mach 10 [2, 4].
President Vladimir Putin said the missile could be as devastating as a nuclear strike even when fitted with conventional warheads [1]. Moscow said the weapon enhances its strategic strike capability and serves as a deterrent to European nations [1, 2].
The missile is capable of striking targets across Europe at hypersonic speeds [2]. Because of its velocity and trajectory, it is intended to bypass the interception systems currently deployed by Western-aligned forces [1, 2].
While some reports classify the Oreshnik as a rare ballistic missile, others emphasize its hypersonic nature [1, 3]. Regardless of the specific classification, the weapon represents a significant escalation in the technical sophistication of the munitions used in the conflict [1, 2].
“could be as devastating as a nuclear strike even when fitted with conventional warheads.”
The repeated use of the Oreshnik missile suggests that Russia is moving beyond experimental deployment to operational integration of hypersonic weaponry. By demonstrating the ability to strike Kyiv with a weapon that can evade air defenses, Moscow is attempting to undermine the perceived security of European airspace and pressure Western allies by showcasing a capability that renders current missile shields potentially obsolete.
