The recent claim by Ukraine that it has inflicted damage onto the Russian Black Sea Fleet Flagship ‘Moskva’ using Neptune Anti-Ship Cruise Missiles, has brought attention to the Neptune missiles and their role on the global stage. The Neptune, inducted into the Ukrainian Defence Forces in March 2021, is a coastal anti-ship cruise missile capable of decimating naval vessels within a range of 300 km. This development transpired over six years, partly propelled by the escalating Russian threat to Ukraine’s coastal areas since the occupation of Crimea in 2014.
The Origins and Capabilities of the Neptune Missile
The Neptune missile was developed hastily as a countermeasure to the Russian threat, a move triggered by the growing turbulence around Ukraine’s coastal regions since Crimea fell into Russian hands in 2014. The missile’s blueprint takes inspiration from a Russian Kh-35 cruise missile, known within NATO circles as the AS-20 Kayak.
This unique missile boasts impressive destructive capabilities, notably its ability to annihilate naval vessels up to 300 kilometers away. These missiles have been an integral part of Ukraine’s defense system since March 2021, marking the culmination of six years of relentless development.
During its operation, the Neptune cruise missile relies on TB-2 drones as decoys to saturate the cruiser’s air defense systems. This strategy ensures a higher probability of the successful execution of the attack.
An Overview of the Russian Black Sea Fleet Flagship ‘Moskva’
On the receiving end of the Neptune missile’s firepower was the Moskva, a guided missile cruiser proudly representing the Russian Navy. Named after the Russian capital, Moscow, this cruiser was originally christened the Slava when it was commissioned in 1983. However, following refurbishments to its weapons systems and electronics, it was recommissioned as the Moskva in 2000.
As a cruiser, the Moskva was designed for high speed and an extensive cruising radius. Its capabilities extend beyond defending its own fleet and coastlines to pose a threat to enemy territories as well. The vessel weighs in at a staggering 12,490 tons and is the flagship of the Russian Navy’s Black Sea Fleet. Around 500 personnel make up the crew sailing the imposing Moskva.
UPSC Civil Services Examination – Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
One question from past UPSC CSE papers has factored into recent developments. The question asked, “What is ‘Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)’, sometimes seen in the news?” with the answer being “(c) An American anti-missile system.”
For reference, the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence, or THAAD, is an American anti-missile system engineered to intercept and eliminate short- and medium-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase of flight, i.e., when they are descending towards their target. This information can provide crucial context considering the current missile-related events.