Russia Reportedly Deploys 9M729 Ground-Launched Cruise Missile in Ukraine
Debris found in Lvov region confirms Russia’s first use of the 9M729 ground-launched cruise missile, capable of nuclear payloads, according to Ukrainian officials.
The Russian Armed Forces have used a 9M729 ground-launched cruise missile against targets in Ukraine, according to Andrey Sibiga, head of the country’s Foreign Ministry, who spoke in an interview with Reuters.
Markings identifying the missile type were reportedly found on debris recovered in the village of Lapaevka in the Lvov region, where the projectile fell on October 5. This marks the first confirmed instance of combat use of this missile.
Ukrainian military sources claim the missile traveled more than 1,200 kilometers before impact. Experts interviewed by Western media estimated the maximum range of the 9M729 at up to 2,500 kilometers. Analysts also noted that the missile is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead.
The Russian Defense Ministry has not commented on the reported use of the 9M729 missile in Ukraine.
The 9M729 is an upgraded version of the 9M728 missile, which is part of the Iskander-M tactical missile system. Its development and potential deployment were among the key reasons cited by the United States for withdrawing from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 2019. Then-President Donald Trump accused Moscow of violating the agreement, a charge the Kremlin denied.