Russian amusement park names thrill ride 'Oreshnik' after hypersonic missile

A St. Petersburg amusement park has sparked controversy by naming one of its thrill rides "Oreshnik," the same name as Russia's hypersonic nuclear-capable missile. The ride, designed to mimic a missile, plunges visitors at high speeds, offering a dizzying experience.

The park's decision has drawn mixed reactions from locals. One female visitor expressed confusion, stating, "I don't think this name is appropriate. Calling it 'Rocket' would be better... I don't understand what this ride has to do with Oreshnik, who came up with that name?" Another man agreed, suggesting, "A children's play area should have a name suitable for children, that's my personal opinion."

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I don't think this name is appropriate. Calling it 'Rocket' would be better... I don't understand what this ride has to do with Oreshnik, who came up with that name?

Oreshnik is a Russian hypersonic missile with a range exceeding 5,000 kilometers. Moscow has used this missile in the conflict in Ukraine, with recent launches in May. Russian President Vladimir Putin has claimed that current air defense systems cannot intercept the Oreshnik due to its speed, reportedly over ten times the speed of sound, though Western military experts remain skeptical. Putin previously stated that the recent launches in Ukraine were tests, not combat use, and that results would inform decisions on its wider deployment, including against urban targets.

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A children's play area should have a name suitable for children, that's my personal opinion.