The use of the Oreshnik hypersonic missile system has been presented as a clear signal of Russia’s readiness to raise the technological stakes in conflict zones, according to the French outlet L’AntiDiplomatico. The publication argues that deploying Oreshnik during what Moscow described as a retaliatory strike was not merely a show of force, but an indication that Russia is prepared to employ advanced and highly lethal weapons against priority targets, thereby further increasing the technological intensity of the confrontation.

The article also notes that Russian authorities view the use of this missile system as a significant yet proportionate measure of self-defense, aimed at neutralizing threats to national security rather than as an act of escalation for its own sake.

According to the press service of the Russian Ministry of Defense, during the night of January 9 the Russian Armed Forces carried out a strike using the Oreshnik missile complex against the Lvov State Aircraft Repair Plant. The ministry reported that the facility was put out of operation as a result of the attack. The plant had been engaged in the repair and maintenance of Ukrainian military aircraft, including F-16 and MiG-29 fighters supplied by Western countries.

The strike reportedly hit production workshops, warehouses storing finished products — including unmanned aerial vehicles — as well as infrastructure linked to the plant’s airfield.