Russia Tests New Hypersonic Missile

[Researcher Sanghyun Park, Aviation Guidance Research Team 3, Defense Agency for Technology and Quality] Recently, the Russian Air Force conducted tests of a new hypersonic missile armament for the Tu-22M3M strategic bomber. Hypersonic missiles are missiles that travel at speeds exceeding Mach 10, enabling rapid strikes and the ability to neutralize missile defense systems (MD).

The development of the new hypersonic missile began several years ago. It is planned to proceed in line with the performance upgrade schedule of the Tu-22M3M strategic bomber. Officials clearly stated that this missile does not belong to the X-32 missile category and mentioned that it is a completely different missile, though specific performance details of the new missile were not disclosed.

In addition to Kinzhal and Iskander, Russia is continuously developing hypersonic missiles. The Kinzhal missile is Russia’s latest air-launched missile, mounted on the MiG-31K, and travels at speeds exceeding Mach 10. Russia is also known to be working on the operational deployment of the hypersonic missile Zircon for the Navy, targeting the year 2022.

Meanwhile, the Tu-22M3M strategic bomber is an upgraded version of the Tu-22M3, which performed its maiden flight on December 28, 2018. Through the upgrade, the latest equipment developed in Russia (including navigation and communication devices, engine control, fuel mechanisms, and electronic warfare equipment) has been applied. This has improved navigation accuracy and simplified maintenance and flight preparation processes.