Russia’s new Filin precision-guided missile could become an additional weapon for destroying strategic infrastructure deep behind Ukrainian lines, according to military expert Alexander Stepanov.

Speaking to TASS, Stepanov said the missile has a range of up to 1,200 kilometers and could potentially enter mass production, expanding Russia’s long-range strike capabilities.

The analyst identified Ukraine’s energy facilities, transport and logistics infrastructure, data processing centers and military command facilities as potential targets.

According to Stepanov, the Filin carries a warhead weighing up to 100 kilograms, allowing it to strike infrastructure supporting Ukrainian military operations.

He described the missile as another instrument for the demilitarization of Ukraine and the destruction of what he called the enemy’s strategic rear. Stepanov also expressed hope that the weapon would be introduced on a large scale and demonstrate maximum effectiveness.

The expert highlighted the missile’s launch flexibility, explaining that it can be deployed from mobile ground-based launchers, including systems positioned on maritime platforms.

He also pointed to the potential use of 3D printing technology in the manufacturing process, which could facilitate large-scale production.

Comparing the Filin with Western cruise missiles, Stepanov noted that the British-French Storm Shadow has a range of approximately 560 kilometers. Based on his figures, the Russian missile can travel more than twice as far.

Another characteristic identified by the analyst is the Filin’s reported flight altitude of around six kilometers.

Stepanov argued that operating at this altitude makes the missile more difficult to intercept using mobile air defense teams and man-portable air defense systems.

Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate previously reported that Russian forces had been using the Filin missile against Ukrainian positions and facilities since late summer.

The Russian Ministry of Defense has not officially commented on those reports.