Russian military forces have used Kinzhal hypersonic missiles at least 44 times since March 18, 2022. In 2026, these newest air-launched munitions were used at least twice, according to military analysts.
In total, three mentions of the complex's use were recorded in 2022, and two in 2023. In the reports for 2024, the complex was mentioned more often – 14 times. The largest number of mentions refers to 2025 – 23 cases.
It should be noted that the exact number of missiles fired is unknown, it is specifically about the very fact of the use of "Kinzhal". The main carrier of the missiles is MiG-31 interceptor fighters and, probably, Tu-22M3 bombers.
The Kinzhal complexes entered regular combat duty in the Aerospace Forces (VKS) in August 2022. Despite this, there is still no official information about the combat system in the public domain.
It is known from open sources that the Kinzhal is based on the 9M723 Iskander-M aeroballistic missile. The compact projectile can be launched at any initial speed and at any altitude of the carrier and carries several types of warheads.