On November 21, 2024, russian troops attacked Dnipro, using an intercontinental ballistic missilelaunched from the Astrakhan region. As noted by military expert Pavlo Narozhny, this is the first time in history that this type of missile has been used in combat. In an exclusive commentary to UNN, he described the features of this type of weapon and its impact on the situation.
What is the peculiarity of this missile?
It has several key features. First, its flight altitude is more than 100 km, and sometimes even up to 150 km. This is much higher than a conventional ballistic missile, which flies at an altitude of 20-25 km. Secondly, it is a very expensive type of missile - the cost of a shot can reach tens of millions of dollars, and if you take into account all the systems, hundreds of millions. It is extremely difficult to shoot down such a missile. It requires a system like THAAD, which Ukraine does not have. And there is no question of anyone transferring them to us. These are state-of-the-art systems that are available in the United States and, possibly, in Israel.
How can this affect the course of the war?
This is more of a psychological pressure than a real influence on the course of the war. Although the missile is designed to carry a nuclear warhead, Russia is unlikely to use nuclear weapons against Ukraine. The use of a nuclear warhead would contaminate the territory of not only Ukraine but also Europe, so it is not beneficial for Russia. In this case, it is likely to be conventional explosives - several tons, which is not new for Ukraine. Russia is already using missiles with warheads of 800 kg-1 tons, and this has not changed the course of the war.
How does this affect the international response?
Of course, this may affect the international response. I hope that our allies will be not just "concerned" but "very concerned" about this development.
Are there any strategic advantages for Russia in using such missiles?
There are no strategic advantages for Russia in using such missiles in this conflict. It is more of a show of force and a huge expenditure of money.
What do you think about the information that the missile that was launched was a Rubizh missile?
Only after analyzing the wreckage of the missile can we say for sure what kind of missile it is. Now it is difficult to make assessments without such information.
Have there been similar cases before?
This is the first time in history that an intercontinental ballistic missile has been used in combat. Previously, intercontinental missiles were used exclusively for testing. For example, Hiroshima and Nagasaki were nuclear bombs dropped from an airplane. More powerful strikes were carried out by the United States when it dropped bombs in Afghanistan, but these were guided bombs, not intercontinental missiles.
What is new in the use of such a missile?
The size of the warhead is the main feature, but it is the use of an intercontinental missile that can travel up to 6,000 kilometers that is a new phenomenon in warfare. This is the first time that such a missile has been used in real combat.
Recall
Today, Russia used a new missile against Ukraine that has the characteristics of an intercontinental ballistic missile. President Zelenskyy said that examinations of this weapon are underway.
Китай закликав до "спокою" після перегляду росією ядерної доктрини20.11.24, 15:43