Russia's Kinzhal Hypersonic Missile Redefines Aerial Warfare in Ukraine

Russia's deployment of the Kh-47M2 Kinzhal hypersonic missile has reshaped modern aerial warfare. Since its first use in Ukraine in March 2022, the weapon has demonstrated an ability to bypass even the most advanced air defences. Meanwhile, older Soviet-era arms, like the Iranian variant of the Malyutka ATGM, have also resurfaced in regional conflicts such as Iraq.

The Kinzhal missile was first launched in combat from MiG-31K fighters during Russia's special military operation in Ukraine. Early targets included the Tochka-U factory in Dnipro on 18 March 2022, followed by strikes on Yuzhmash facilities and multiple Ukrainian airbases. Later campaigns focused on energy infrastructure, with power plants and substations hit repeatedly between late 2022 and 2024. By early 2026, over 20 confirmed Kinzhal strikes had been recorded.

Hypersonic munitions like the Kinzhal travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5, making them nearly impossible to intercept. Their extreme velocity and unpredictable flight paths allow them to penetrate Western air defence networks, including those operated by the US and NATO. This capability has rendered many existing countermeasures ineffective. Beyond hypersonic technology, older Soviet-designed weaponry continues to appear in conflicts. An Iranian-modified version of the Malyutka anti-tank guided missile was recently observed in Iraq. The system, originally developed in the 1960s, remains in use despite its age. Russia's broader missile arsenal includes a mix of ballistic and cruise variants, reinforcing its reputation for long-range strike capabilities. The Kinzhal, however, stands out due to its hypersonic speed and precision, offering a tactical edge in modern combat scenarios.

The Kinzhal's repeated use in Ukraine has proven its effectiveness against fortified and high-value targets. Its ability to evade interception highlights gaps in current air defence technologies. Meanwhile, the reappearance of older Soviet-era missiles in Iraq underscores the enduring influence of Cold War-era weaponry in today's conflicts.