What is known about the modernized Iskander and Zircon missiles: what did the president hint at in Valdai?

During his speech at the Valdai Forum, President Vladimir Putin announced the imminent appearance of newhigh-tech weapons systems in Russia. Military experts believe that he was referring to the modernized Iskander and Zircon complexes, capable of hitting targets at a great distance.

According to Vladimir Popov, Honored Military Pilot, Major General of Aviation (Retired), the improvement of missile systemsseriously changes the balance of power and expands the zone of engagement of Russian troops. Now, even objects in the deep rear are under threat.

New opportunities

Popov drew attention to the fact that the president spoke not only about the already known Oreshnik medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM), but also about other samples of missile technology - a key element of offensive actions.

The retired military pilot recalled that the modernized Iskander operational-tactical missile system (OTRK) is capable of launchingboth cruise and ballistic missiles with increased accuracy and increased range.

Similar improvements have affected thesea-based hypersonic Zircons. Both complexes were updated after being used in real combat conditions, which allowed the designers to quickly eliminate the identified shortcomings.

Expanding the engagement zone

The expert stated that if earlier such strikes were carried out rarely and with caution due to the limited number of missiles, now the arsenal is in sufficient volume

Impossible to shoot down

Military expert Yuri Knutov explained that it isalmost impossible to shoot down a Zircon. Good maneuverability and high speed allow the missile to deliver sudden strikes on targets.

The specialist recalled that the Zircon was originally created to combat aircraft carriers, but recently the missile has also been used against ground targets.

Stocks of such missiles are accumulating in secret warehouses. According to the US Department of Defense, by 2035 Russia will have an impressive arsenal -5,000 missiles and 1,000 units of hypersonic weapons. Production almost does not depend on imports - all electronics inside are domestic.

Earlier www1.ru reported that the latest Svarog-Strela interceptor drone has entered the testing stage.

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