New Kyiv’s long-range weapon can reach Moscow, Sochi, or Saratov

In an interview with Novini Live, Mykhailo Podoliak, adviser to the head of the president’s office, shared these estimates. He cited comments from the Ukrainian President to support his claims. It’s worth noting that on August 27, 2024, when President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the successful test of a domestic ballistic missile, he didn’t disclose its range.

Back in August 2023, President Zelenskyy revealed the successful deployment of Ukraine’s long-range weaponry over a distance of 700 km. By November, it was clarified that this weapon was a missile, though the specifics—whether it was a cruise or ballistic missile—were not detailed.

The head of state and supreme commander announced that “Ukraine has successfully tested its first domestically produced ballistic missile.” In other words, Ukraine’s defense industry is making significant strides, aiming to create a counter to Russia’s Iskander missile system. This statement suggests that we’re likely talking about Ukraine’s “Sapsan,” also known as “Hrim-2.” 

Interestingly, in November 2023, the Armed Forces of Ukraine mentioned the status of the “Hrim-2” for the first time during the war. Brigadier General Sergey Baranov, head of the Main Directorate of Missile Troops and Artillery and Unmanned Systems of the General Staff hinted at this development during a discussion on ArmiyaFM.

It’s also worth noting that throughout this period, Russia kept a close watch on Ukraine’s “Hrim-2” program. There were even claims from the Russian Ministry of Defense about efforts to counteract the “Hrim-2” ballistic missile.

The successful test launch of a domestic ballistic missile marks a monumental leap for Ukraine’s defense industry. This achievement underscores the capacity to mass-produce the missiles needed for extensive testing, a significant feat given the ongoing Russian missile strikes on Ukrainian soil.

Ultimately, this capability means striking a variety of significant targets deep within the Russian Federation. Notably, Moscow itself falls within 600-700 kilometers, just behind the border or front lines. But there are other valuable targets within this range too.

For instance, the strategic aviation airport “Engels” near Saratov, which remains connected to Russian strategic bombers, is within reach. The Black Sea Fleet base in Novorossiysk would also be in range, potentially even Sochi. These targets could be more critical than an attack on the Kremlin.

It’s worth noting, however, that there might be some confusion regarding Mykhailo Podolyak’s mention of the “missile-drone Palancia.” Given its description, it appears to be a jet drone, or in other words, a cruise missile. The video map and official cover show a range of exactly 600-700 kilometers, which aligns with the noted capabilities.

It’s intriguing to consider the possibility that the “Palamcia” might actually be a rocket-drone, equipped with a rocket engine rather than the claimed jet engine. However, this raises several questions about its design. The fixed straight wings suggest it’s a subsonic aircraft, contradicting the rocket engine theory.