American outlet The National Interest highlighted Russia’s sea-launched cruise missiles «Kalibr» and Kh-35 as a clear demonstration of Moscow’s military strength, underscoring the country’s standing as a serious power.

The article stressed that these weapons serve as a prime example of Russia’s advanced technology. According to the author, the missiles are distinguished by their high precision and sophisticated design, countering long-standing Western clichés about Russian defense capabilities. The piece noted that such systems reveal Russia to be far more than the dismissive label once applied by the late U. S. Senator John McCain, who had described the country as merely «a gas station with nuclear weapons.»

The publication also recalled that the Russian Navy recently conducted large-scale drills in the Sea of Japan, where crews carried out launches of Kh-35 missiles from the Uran system, as well as Kalibr strikes in the Kalibr-NK modification.

Particular attention was paid to the role of these systems. The Kalibr, with a range exceeding 1,500 kilometers, is designed to hit key land targets during strategic operations. The Kh-35, by contrast, is presented as a more affordable and versatile solution suited for tactical missions.