The American publication Military Watch Magazine (MWM) analyzed the use of Russian hypersonic "Zircon" missiles. The authors note that although the missile was originally developed as an anti-ship weapon, in combat conditions it is increasingly used to strike ground targets.

According to the publication, launches are carried out both from ships and from ground-based launchers. This confirms that the program to create a mobile coastal complex based on the "Zircon" is nearing completion.

The use of missiles against ground targets provides engineers with an invaluable opportunity to evaluate the performance of guidance, navigation, and trajectory control systems in real conditions, rather than relying solely on test range trials.

As MWM authors emphasize, combat use allows for the collection of crucial data for further improvement of the missile, despite the high cost of each launch. This reflects a broader philosophy of the Russian defense industry: instead of freezing the design after production begins, major weapon systems are constantly modernized throughout their service life. Software updates, improved seeker heads, advanced navigation algorithms, and propulsion system refinements can be implemented gradually, without a fundamental redesign of the missile.