Ukraine's new 'Long Neptune' missile shakes Russian strategy
Volodymyr Zelensky announced that the Ukrainian army has a new weapon. "Long Neptune" is a missile with a range of 1,000 kilometres, and thanks to its remarkable precision, it can be used far beyond the front line - for example, on Russian territory.
The President of Ukraine conveyed on social media that Ukraine has developed a missile with a range of 1,000 kilometres. "We have tangible results," wrote Zelensky. "The long Neptune missile was tested and successfully used in combat. A new Ukrainian missile, precise strike," he added.
Precise strike on the Russians
"Long Neptune" is the latest Ukrainian cruise missile. The original R-360 Neptune was developed as an anti-ship missile, but Ukrainian engineers adapted it for strikes on land targets, significantly increasing its potential.
The development of the long-range version allows for attacks on Russian military and critical infrastructure, particularly deep behind the front line. Thanks to modernization, the range of the "Long Neptune" has increased to approximately 1,000 kilometres, allowing for attacks on key targets in Russia, such as refineries, military bases, and logistics hubs.
Key modernizations
The new version differs from the original Neptune in several aspects:
• Range: The original Neptune had a maximum range of about 280–300 kilometres, while the "Long Neptune" reaches even 1,000 kilometres, which places it in the same category as missiles such as the American Tomahawk.
• Propulsion: It uses an enhanced jet engine, allowing for greater fuel efficiency and a longer flight.
• Guidance system: Utilizes advanced inertial and satellite navigation, allowing for very precise strikes on strategically significant targets.
• Flight modes: Can operate at very low altitudes, using the terrain to hide from radars, and also perform maneuvers to evade air defenses.
• Warhead: Likely has various types of warheads, including fragmentation explosives, making it effective against military and industrial infrastructure.
Russia's most modern refinery ablaze
For the first time, "Long Neptune" was likely used to attack the refinery in Tuapse, a key facility for processing oil for the Russian Black Sea Fleet. This strike has serious consequences for Russian logistics and fuel supply.
The attack took place on March 14th. "There was a fire in a fuel tank at the base. I am on site. According to preliminary information, there are no fatalities or injuries. The situation is under control," reported Sergey Boyko, head of the Tuapse urban district.
The refinery in Tuapse is crucial for the Russian army as it supplies fuel to the Black Sea Fleet and military infrastructure in the southern part of the country. It is part of the supply chain for fuel for military equipment and aviation. It has the capacity to process about 12 million tonnes of oil annually.
