The hypersonic "Kinzhal" is arguably the most secretive Russian missile program. Official characteristics are still only partially known, and data on production and the number of units in service are estimated only from open sources.
"Pervyy Tekhnicheskiy" has compiled answers to the most popular questions about the missile, which in a few years has become one of the symbols of modern Russian weaponry.
How many Kinzhal missiles are produced in Russia?
Exact figures are not disclosed, but most open estimates converge on a figure of about 4-5 missiles per month, which corresponds to approximately 50-60 units per year.
According to various analysts, the total stock of such missiles could be around 80-100 units, but these data have not been officially confirmed.
Why are Kinzhals launched by MiG-31K, and what does the Su-34 have to do with it?
The main feature of the Kh-47M2 is that it is not an ordinary cruise missile, but an aeroballistic system.
The MiG-31K lifts the unit to an altitude of about 15-18 km and accelerates to a speed of over 2500 km/h, after which the missile separates and continues its flight with a huge energy reserve. In fact, the Kinzhal receives part of its speed and altitude for free even before launch.
Meanwhile, information has appeared online that the Kh-47M2 will now be launched by modernized Su-34 bombers. However, retired pilot Fighterbomber strongly doubted such a possibility.
I report. Developments are currently underway for suspending two or three strategic missile carriers like the Tu-160 or Tu-95 on the Su-34. And on them, there will already be "Kinzhal" missiles along with "Avangards." A hundred pieces on each.
According to open sources, the Russian Aerospace Forces may have about 25 modernized MiG-31Ks capable of using this weapon.
What is the speed and range of the Kinzhal?
Open sources most often cite a speed of up to 10-12 Mach, which is approximately 12-14 thousand km/h.
The range of the missile itself is estimated at approximately 1500-2000 km, and taking into account the carrier's radius of action, the total engagement radius exceeds 3000 km.
It is the combination of speed, flight altitude, and maneuvering that has made the Kh-47M2 one of the most unusual missiles created by Russian industry in recent decades.
Комментарии