The American intelligence community has estimated the stockpile of cruise and hypersonic missiles the Russian Federation currently possesses.
Analysts from the Ukrainian service Defence Express highlight that the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) report was primarily prepared with considerations regarding the
American Golden Dome
program, but for obvious reasons, it holds significant interest for Ukrainians as well.
How many cruise and hypersonic missiles does Russia have left?
According to American estimates, the Russian Federation currently possesses
between 300 and 600 long-range cruise missiles
. These mainly include the
Ch-101
R-500, and Kalibr missiles.
The course of the war in Ukraine has shown that when it comes to cruise missiles, the Russians frequently use the Ch-101 and Kalibr. The Ch-101 is launched from the air, while the Kalibr was initially designed for surface ships and submarines. Over time, the Russians have also introduced a land variant of the Kalibr, launched from the Iskander system.
Regarding
hypersonic missiles
, the DIA report suggests that Russia’s current stockpile includes about
200-300 units
, comprising missiles like the Zircon and Ch-47M2 Kinzhal,
that have been utilized to assault Ukraine
. These missiles travel at hypersonic speeds (above Mach 5), making them difficult for Ukraine to counteract. In practice, only Patriot system batteries are capable of intercepting them.
From an American viewpoint, it’s important to recognize that these Russian arms have the capability to be fitted with nuclear warheads. Nonetheless, the versions employed in strikes against Ukrainian forces are outfitted with conventional explosives instead.
What is the annual production capacity for missiles in Russia?
The Defence Express analysts similarly highlight the significance of comprehending the manufacturing capacities of the Russian Federation concerning these missile varieties. According to American assessments, Russia has an estimated capability to produce around 500 cruise missiles and up to 80 hypersonic missiles annually.
It is noteworthy that
Russia has recently brought the new S8000 Banderol cruise missile into operational use.
.
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