05:59 29-04-2026

S-71K Kover Missile: Russia’s Precision Strike Weapon

The S-71K Kover missile is described as a lower-cost precision weapon for the Su-57, with future integration planned for the S-70 Okhotnik.

Ukrainian intelligence said Russian forces used a new S-71K Kover missile in the special military operation zone. The weapon is described as a lower-cost, high-precision, long-range air-launched munition.

The missile was developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau for use with the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter. Russian forces also plan to integrate it into the weapons suite of the S-70 Okhotnik strike drone.

According to Gazeta. Ru military observer and retired colonel Mikhail Khodarenok, the S-71K uses a standard 250-kg OFAB-250-270 high-explosive fragmentation aerial bomb as its warhead. It is placed in a structural frame in the front section of the missile’s fuselage.

Khodarenok considers the air-launched cruise missile a powerful weapon designed for precision strikes against Ukrainian Armed Forces targets. He believes this role allows the S-71K to show its strongest qualities.

The expert also noted that the missile’s low radar visibility helps it operate in areas covered by enemy air defenses.

Khodarenok compared Kover with the US AGM-158 JASSM missile, with major reservations. In his view, the Russian design may be weaker in warhead power, but it has a clear advantage in cost.