Russia's new Iskander-1000 missile shifts regional power balance
Russia plans to commence mass production of the new Iskander-1000 missile system, which could alter the power dynamics in the region, reports Bulgarian Military. The system will have an increased range of approximately 1,000 kilometres. This will place numerous targets in Eastern and Central Europe within the Kremlin's reach. What else is known about the Iskander-1000?
The Iskander-1000 system is the latest development from the Russian defence industry, aiming to bolster the missile capabilities of the Russian Federation significantly. This solution first emerged in May 2024, and its mass production is anticipated to begin soon. According to reports, the Iskander-1000 is an enhancement of the previous 9K720 Iskander-M system, with an increased strike range reaching up to 1,000 kilometres.
Russians have a new version of the Iskander
The key changes in the new system include the implementation of an improved rocket engine, based on modern technologies and a new fuel mixture, which permits greater speed and range. Additionally, the Iskander-1000 is to be fitted with an advanced guidance system, combining inertial navigation with satellite correction and the possibility of radar guidance in the final flight phase. These enhancements are designed to ensure high strike precision, with an error margin not exceeding 5 metres.
The introduction of the Iskander-1000 into the arsenal of the Russian armed forces could significantly impact the balance of power in the region, notes Bulgarian Military. Theoretically, the 1,000-kilometre range allows targeting most countries in Central and Eastern Europe, including Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic. The system may also be used to target Ukrainian airbases, which house F-16 fighters. This power projection capability raises concerns among NATO countries, particularly in the context of potential deployment of these systems in the Kaliningrad region.
According to Bulgarian Military, Russia's choice of deployment locations for the Iskander-1000 systems will reflect its strategic priorities and indicate areas where the Kremlin aims to dominate or deter potential adversaries. It may also be part of Russia's political strategy, where a display of strength and capabilities becomes a negotiation element.
