Russia halts production of 'Kinzhal' hypersonic missile, Ukraine claims

Russia has reportedly suspended production of its Kh-47M2 "Kinzhal" hypersonic missile, according to Ukraine's military intelligence. Vadym Skibitsky, deputy head of Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), stated that Russia ceased manufacturing the missile in April. The resources, including rocket fuel and components, are allegedly being redirected to produce other ballistic missiles that the Russian military deems more effective.

The Kinzhal missile, derived from the ground-launched Iskander short-range ballistic missile, was unveiled in 2018 and heavily promoted by the Kremlin as a next-generation hypersonic weapon. It was claimed to reach speeds of up to Mach 10 and was primarily carried by MiG-31K fighter jets. The missile's high speed and short flight time often triggered widespread air raid alerts across Ukraine.

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Russia stopped manufacturing the 'Kinzhal' in April, and the rocket fuel and components were transferred to other ballistic missiles that the Russian army considers more effective.

Skibitsky indicated that Ukraine's intelligence services observed adjustments in Russian missile production starting in April. Beyond the Kinzhal, Russia is also said to have paused the production and operational use of the Kh-32 missile, an upgrade of the Soviet Kh-22 anti-ship missile. Ukraine believes that funds and components originally allocated for the Kh-32 are also being diverted to other missile programs.

Accuracy issues may be a reason for Russia's resource reallocation. Skibitsky noted that while modern guided missiles typically have a hit deviation of 5 to 7 meters, the Kinzhal's deviation could be 30 meters or more, falling short of its advertised advanced capabilities. Furthermore, Ukraine has repeatedly claimed to have intercepted Kinzhal missiles using U.S.-supplied Patriot air defense systems since 2023, demonstrating that the weapon is not entirely invulnerable.

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The deviation of modern guided missiles should be controlled within 5 to 7 meters, but the actual deviation of the 'Kinzhal' may reach 30 meters or even more.