Ukraine succeeds in intercepting Russian Kinzhal hypersonic missiles – UK intelligence

UK Defence Intelligence has noted Ukraine's success in intercepting Russian "super weapons" – Kinzhal hypersonic missiles.

Source: UK Defence Intelligence review dated 19 December on Twitter, as reported by European Pravda

Details: UK analysts have noted that on 14 December 2023, the Russian Aerospace Forces most likely used the Kinzhal [NATO reporting name AS-24 KILLJOY - ed.] air-to-ground ballistic missile for the first time since August 2023. Russia has launched at least one such missile into central Ukraine, likely aiming at a military airfield.

The UK MoD noted that the Kinzhal is one of six "superweapons" that Russian President Vladimir Putin announced in 2018. These missiles are expected to play an essential role in Russia's future military doctrine.

Russia has reserved these weapons in the war against Ukraine for targets that it considers highly valuable and well-protected.

Background:

• However, UK analysts stressed that the Kinzhals have almost certainly had a mixed combat debut. Many of the missile launches likely failed to reach their targets, whereas Ukraine succeeded in intercepting these supposedly "invincible" weapons.
• Earlier in October, the UK Defence Ministry explained why Putin needs Kinzhals over the Black Sea.
• The Estonian General Staff noted that Ukraine's ability to shoot down the Kinzhal missiles has dealt a psychological blow to Russia.

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