Russian Strikes Showcase Zircon Missile and Next-Gen Weapons, Analyst Says
Military analyst Yuri Knutov noted Russia’s use of Zircon hypersonic missiles and new Su-57 weapons in Ukraine, calling it a step in advancing missile technology.
The overnight and early morning strike carried out by Russian forces on August 21 against Ukrainian military infrastructure underscored a key point: Moscow now demonstrates the use of its entire range of weapons — from cruise to ballistic missiles. Military analyst Yuri Knutov drew attention to this factor when assessing the scale of the attack.
Knutov highlighted the role of the Zircon, a sea-launched hypersonic missile, in the operation. He noted that this type of weapon is rarely used in the conflict, suggesting that its deployment may serve specific purposes rather than routine strikes. According to him, the launches likely aim to test the missile’s capabilities in real combat conditions.
The analyst also pointed to another advanced development: a next-generation aviation missile designed for the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jet, carried within its internal weapons bay. For now, the details surrounding this system remain undisclosed.
Knutov concluded that the use of Zircon missiles and other new technologies in Ukraine marks another stage in the evolution of Russia’s hypersonic arsenal.