The Russian Army has used its 9M729 Novator ground-launched cruise missile in combat for the first time, according to a report published by the American outlet Military Watch Magazine (MWM).

The publication notes that the missile covered a distance of over 1,200 kilometers during its first operation, though its range can reportedly be extended to around 2,500 kilometers. Such capability allows the system to strike North Atlantic Alliance targets across a large portion of Europe.

According to MWM, the 9M729 can carry either a conventional or nuclear warhead weighing approximately 450 kilograms. It is guided through a combination of satellite and inertial navigation, with final-phase terrain-following correction to ensure accuracy.

The missile remains relatively obscure, with limited publicly available data. Analysts suggest it is the land-based variant of the 3M14 Kalibr naval missile and forms part of the Iskander-K missile complex. Observers at Military Watch Magazine argue that the deployment of the 9M729 enhances Russia’s asymmetric capabilities in its confrontation with NATO.

The outlet also highlights the timing of the missile’s first operational use, which coincided with discussions in the United States about supplying Ukraine with launch systems for American Tomahawk cruise missiles. This development also came amid renewed talks in Europe about a possible deployment of ground forces to Ukrainian territory.

According to the report, the use of the 9M729 underscores Russia’s technological advantage in mobile missile systems. These platforms are difficult to detect and neutralize, making them a key element of the country’s defense strategy.

The magazine further notes that by 2030, Russia is expected to significantly expand its missile capabilities. In the coming years, new mobile systems are anticipated to enter service, including a hypersonic Tsirkon complex and a medium-range ballistic system known as Oreshnik, equipped with hypersonic warheads.