Oreshnik Missile: Russia's New Intermediate-Range Weapon Debuts in Ukraine Strike
Moscow, Russia:
Russia has introduced a new intermediate-range ballistic missile, the Oreshnik, in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. This nuclear-capable missile, unveiled during a strike on Dnipro, marks a significant addition to Russia's arsenal, with President Vladimir Putin calling it a "masterpiece of modern missile construction."
Here’s an in-depth look at the Oreshnik missile’s capabilities and implications.
A Hypersonic Weapon Unveiled
The Oreshnik, named after the Russian word for "hazel tree," was revealed during an unscheduled television appearance by Putin. According to him, the missile was used in a non-nuclear hypersonic configuration during its first combat test and successfully struck its target.
Unmatched Speed
The Oreshnik travels at Mach 10, approximately 2.5–3 kilometers per second, making it impervious to existing air defense systems.
- As a hypersonic weapon, it is capable of maneuvering mid-flight, a characteristic that significantly complicates interception.
- Putin asserted that "modern air defense systems... cannot intercept such missiles," underscoring its strategic edge.
Warhead Capabilities
Military experts report that the Oreshnik can carry three to six warheads, which can be independently guided to different targets.
- Current Deployment: Conventional warheads were used in the Dnipro strike.
- Nuclear Potential: Experts suggest it is also capable of delivering nuclear payloads, increasing its strategic importance.
Dmitry Kornev of Military Russia noted the missile's effectiveness, emphasizing the simultaneous arrival of multiple warheads at the target.
Range and Origins
The Oreshnik's range situates it at the top end of the intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) category:
- Range: Estimated at 3,000–5,000 kilometers, potentially threatening most of Europe.
- Origins: The missile is reportedly based on the RS-26 Rubezh, a derivative of the Topol intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). Development of the Rubezh had been halted to prioritize other systems, but Oreshnik’s emergence demonstrates its evolution into a combat-ready weapon.
Geopolitical Implications
The strike with the Oreshnik highlights broader tensions:
- Europe Under Threat: With its extensive range, the missile places nearly all of Europe within its reach.
- Revocation of Treaties: The development comes after both the United States and Russia withdrew from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 2019, removing restrictions on such weapons.
Putin hinted at future deployment decisions being tied to the actions of the U.S. and its allies, signaling potential escalation in missile deployments.
What Lies Ahead?
While the Oreshnik's introduction demonstrates Russia's advanced missile technology, experts believe it may not see mass production due to its high cost and complexity. However, its deployment in combat showcases Russia's evolving military strategy and commitment to hypersonic technology.
A Growing Threat
The Oreshnik is a stark reminder of the escalating arms race. Its capabilities not only redefine modern warfare but also challenge global security dynamics, particularly for Europe. As nations respond to this development, the focus on missile defense systems and diplomatic efforts to curb such advancements is likely to intensify.
Stay tuned for updates as the story unfolds
Reference from:-https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/speed-range-threat-all-about-russias-oreshnik-missile-fired-on-ukraine-7080192