The Ukrainian military intelligence agency, GUR, has published comprehensive details regarding Russia’s 3M22 Zircon missile, as part of its ongoing series focusing on Russia’s ballistic weaponry. The announcement includes an interactive 3D model of the missile and information about its components, including foreign technology.
Initially developed as a naval strike weapon intended for Russian submarines and frigates, the Zircon missile has been adapted for launch from the Bastion-M coastal missile systems due to significant operational challenges faced by the Russian fleet in the Black Sea amid the war in Ukraine.
Upon launch, the missile exits its container from a ship or coastal launch unit, activating the starting engine to achieve the necessary altitude and speed for the main engine to engage. After the separation of the starting motor, the primary propulsion system kicks in. Both the initial and main engines are solid-fueled. The missile’s orientation and stabilization at the target course are managed by orientation and stabilization engines located on a protective fairing, which is jettisoned after launch.
Despite claims by Russian sources that the Zircon can reach speeds of up to 9 Mach, Ukrainian intelligence has recorded maximum speeds of only 6.8 Mach during specific flight phases, noting that this speed is not maintained throughout the entire flight.
The 3M22 features a combined guidance system: inertial guidance during the cruise phase and an active radar homing system for terminal phase guidance. It is equipped with a standard onboard digital computing complex, referred to as Baget-83, prevalent in Russian ballistic systems. The tail section contains electro-hydraulic control devices and aerodynamic fins that facilitate flight maneuverability. These fins are stowed during transport and deploy after launch from the container. The entire tail section is constructed from titanium, ensuring structural strength and durability during operation.
Context
- In Russia, the Zircon is touted as the “world’s first hypersonic cruise missile capable of sustained aerodynamic flight with maneuvering through dense atmospheric layers using thrust throughout its trajectory.” Media outlets have also referred to this missile as a superweapon or “wunderwaffe” of the illegitimate regime led by President Vladimir Putin.
- However, the Ukrainian Air Force has stated that Patriot air defense systems, including older variants, are capable of intercepting Zircon missiles.
- Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat mentioned in an interview with RBK-Ukraine published on February 2 that the use of Zircon missiles by Russian forces is “strange.”
