Footage has emerged online of a low-altitude flight of the Russian X-101 air-launched strategic cruise missile of the "air-to-surface" class for Tu-95MS and Tu-160 missile-carrying bombers.
The date and location of the filming are unknown, but judging by all appearances, the video is recent. The footage may have captured a modernized version of the Kh-101 with an improved optoelectronic guidance system, which has been used since November 2023 and is called "Product 504AP."
The Aerospace Forces (VKS) of Russia also often use the Kh-101 as a decoy to deplete the missile arsenal of air defense systems. These missiles "pave the way" before subsequent strikes by "Calibers" or "Iskanders."
Preliminary characteristics of the X-101:
- Launch weight — up to 2400 kg
- Length — 7.45 m
- Maximum range — 5500 km
- Accuracy (circular error probable) — up to 20 m
The missile entered mass production in 2010-2011. Distinguishing features of the Kh-101 are the presence of a jamming system and reduced radar signature.
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