Intoduction

The Oreshnik hypersonic missile, recently unveiled by Russia, represents a significant advancement in missile technology and compares favorably to other hypersonic missiles globally in several key aspects

https://youtu.be/gVuUOHIU5eg

Speed and Maneuverability

Hypersonic Capability: The Oreshnik reportedly travels at Mach 10, or approximately 2.5-3 kilometers per second. This places it among the fastest hypersonic missiles currently known, surpassing the speed of many existing systems.

Evasion of Defenses: Putin claims that the missile’s speed makes it invulnerable to current air defense and missile defense systems, including those deployed by NATO allies in Europe.

Range and Strategic Implications

Intermediate Range: The Oreshnik is classified as an intermediate-range ballistic missile, with an estimated range of 2,500-3,000 kilometers, potentially extending up to 5,000 kilometers. This range puts most of Europe within striking distance, significantly expanding Russia’s strategic reach.

Global Comparison: While not an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Oreshnik’s range is substantial compared to many other hypersonic systems being developed globally.

Payload and Destructive Power

Multiple Warheads: The Oreshnik reportedly carries six warheads, each containing six submunitions. This multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle (MIRV) capability enhances its effectiveness and destructive potential.

Conventional and Nuclear Capability: Although used with conventional warheads in its combat debut, the Oreshnik is capable of carrying nuclear payloads, adding to its strategic significance.

Technological Advancements

Domestic Development: Putin has promoted the Oreshnik as a testament to Russia’s technological capabilities, claiming it was developed by a domestic military sector unaffected by Western sanctions.

Adaptability: The Oreshnik appears to be an adaptation of Russia’s RS-26 Rubezh ICBM, showcasing Russia’s ability to repurpose existing technologies for new strategic purposes.

Global Context

Limited Competition: While several countries are developing hypersonic missiles, including the United States, China, and India, Russia’s operational deployment of the Oreshnik puts it at the forefront of this technology.

Strategic Signaling: The use of the Oreshnik in Ukraine serves as a demonstration of Russia’s advanced missile capabilities to NATO and other potential adversaries.

Conclusion

The Oreshnik’s combination of speed, range, payload capacity, and reported ability to evade current defense systems positions it as a formidable weapon in the global hypersonic missile landscape. However, as hypersonic technology is rapidly evolving, its relative superiority may be challenged as other nations advance their own hypersonic programs.

Video of Orezhnik :

https://youtu.be/gVuUOHIU5eg