The first crew of a Russian Su-34 multipurpose bomber aircraft to fire a Kinzhal missile at Ukraine has been honored with state awards. The Kinzhal missile, officially known as the Kh-47M2 “Dagger,” is a hypersonic, air-launched ballistic missile with nuclear capabilities. It can reach speeds of up to Mach 10, carry both conventional and nuclear warheads, and has a range of 1,500-2,000 km. The missile is designed to be launched from MiG-31 fighter jets at high altitudes and can maneuver to evade enemy air defenses. Hypersonic missiles like the Kinzhal travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5, making them challenging targets for defense systems.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Kh-47M2 (Kinzhal Missile): The Kh-47M2, nicknamed “Kinzhal” or “Dagger,” is a Russian air-launched hypersonic ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads. It is known for its exceptional speed and maneuverability.
- MiG-31 Fighter Jets: MiG-31 is a high-speed interceptor aircraft used by Russia. It serves as the launch platform for the Kinzhal missile, launching it from high altitudes.
- Thermonuclear Option: The Kinzhal missile has the capability to carry thermonuclear warheads, which use nuclear fusion reactions to release a tremendous amount of energy, making them exceptionally destructive.
- Hypersonic Missiles: Hypersonic missiles are advanced weapon systems that travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5, making them extremely fast and difficult for traditional air defense systems to intercept. They are known for their maneuverability and strategic importance in modern warfare.
