Russian President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged that the accuracy of the 3M22 Zircon hypersonic cruise missile, touted as one of the country's most advanced weapon systems, needs to be improved. Speaking at a meeting with Russian Navy personnel on July 26, Putin also stated that recent combat use has increased the missile's accuracy. The Russian President emphasized that development efforts would continue.
Actively Used in Ukraine
The Zircon, capable of flying at hypersonic speeds, reaching approximately Mach 9, is considered one of the most challenging targets for existing air defense systems. Russia is actively using this missile in its attacks against Ukraine.
During the meeting, Putin stated that Russia continues to develop new technologies in both offensive and defensive areas, describing the Zircon as one of the country's most important high-tech weapons. The Russian leader noted that very few countries in the world possess such weapons and that Russia would continue to enhance its existing capabilities.
According to data shared by the Ukrainian army, Russia has significantly increased its use of Zircon missiles recently. Statements from the Ukrainian Air Force and military units indicate that a total of 20 Zircon missiles were launched in the first 19 days of July.
This number corresponds to approximately two-thirds of the missile's estimated annual production. For comparison, Russia reportedly used 15 Zircon missiles throughout June. Ukrainian military intelligence estimates that Russia had more than 120 Zircon missiles in its inventory by mid-July.
Ukrainian military experts state that the Zircon's greatest advantage is its hypersonic speed. The missile's ability to reach its target within minutes significantly shortens the reaction time for air defense systems, making it difficult to intercept. However, Pavlo Lakiychuk, a retired first-class captain of the Ukrainian Navy and security programs director at the Strategy XXI Global Research Center, argues that the system's most significant weakness is its accuracy. Putin's recent statements also indicate that Russia is aware of this deficiency.
Emphasis on the Russian Navy and Poseidon Project
In his speech, Putin also highlighted the role of the Russian Navy in the country's defense strategy. He stated that the Navy is one of the key elements of Russia's nuclear deterrence triad, alongside land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles and strategic bombers.
Putin emphasized that the nuclear submarine fleet, carrying nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missiles, is critically important for strategic deterrence, stating that these platforms are capable of delivering a powerful response to a potential attack. Putin also announced that the Poseidon unmanned underwater vehicle project has reached its final development stage and is nearing operational service.
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