New Russian missile exploits Western tech, challenges sanctions
For several weeks, Russia has been using the new S8000 Banderol cruise missile in its attacks on Ukraine. It has sparked controversy because it is built with components from the West, indicating that sanctions are not fully effective.
What do you need to know?
- Banderol is a new Russian cruise missile that has been used in attacks on Ukraine for several weeks.
- Technology: The missile achieves immense speeds, posing a threat to Ukrainian air defense.
- Components: The missile incorporates foreign electronic elements, including from Japan, South Korea, and the USA, acquired by Russia through smuggling.
According to Defence24, the S8000 Banderol (Russian for package) is a new Russian cruise missile that has been used for several weeks to attack targets on Ukrainian territory. Its official presentation took place on April 26 in front of Dmitry Medvedev at a special ceremony at the Kapustin Yar proving ground. The missile's cruising speed exceeds 500 km/h, with a maximum speed reaching 670 km/h. This makes it difficult to intercept with anti-aircraft systems. The missile's range is about 500 km, allowing it to strike targets over long distances.
A Chinese turbojet engine powers the missile. It is approximately 5 metres long, and its wingspan exceeds 2 metres. Banderol carries a warhead weighing 115 kg, with 50 kg being explosive material.
New Russian missile. Built with Western components
At a Ukrainian military intelligence conference, it was revealed that the Banderol missile contains foreign electronic components. The power supply batteries are from the Japanese company Murata, the servomotor from South Korea, and the clock oscillator from the USA. The missile contains over 23 components from various countries, including the USA, Switzerland, Japan, China, and Australia.
Russia acquires these elements through smuggling, using companies registered abroad that purchase them and send them to Russia. This shows how Russia circumvents sanctions and acquires the necessary technology.
Are sanctions against Russia ineffective?
The new Banderol missile stirs a lot of controversy. Some commentators emphasize that despite the lack of a developed electronics industry, Russia has managed to create a technologically advanced product. Others point to the issue of obtaining components from the West, indicating that sanctions are not completely effective.
Banderol is perceived as a threat to Ukrainian air defense because its speed and range can effectively overwhelm defense systems. Ukrainian news channels report that the missile is difficult to shoot down, which poses a challenge for the country's defense.
Source: Defence24
