Russia resumes use of Kh‑22 missiles amid rising tensions
Russian forces have resumed the use of the Kh-22 missile against Ukraine after a prolonged pause, as reported by Yuri Ihnat from the Ukrainian Air Force. The last launch of this weapon towards Ukraine was in February 2025, meaning the Russians had not used the Kh-22 for three months.
The Russian military has indeed restarted utilising Kh-22 missiles, confirmed by Yuri Ihnat, head of the Communications Department of the Ukrainian Air Force Command. This missile, launched from a Tu-22M3 aircraft, has a warhead weighing about 950 kilograms and is notorious for its considerable inaccuracy, with a potential deviation of up to 600 metres.
Effectiveness of Ukrainian air defence
The Ukrainian air defence has shown great effectiveness in combating cruise missiles. Western aircraft, such as the F-16 and Mirage, participated in the operations and played a crucial role. Unfortunately, not all ballistic missiles launched across various regions were intercepted.
- Unfortunately, ballistic missiles were fired in different regions today. We failed to intercept them, - explained Ihnat.
Increase in drone production by Russia
Ihnat also pointed out the record number of Shahed drones and trap drones used by Russia, totalling 298 units. This suggests an increase in the production of these devices by the Russian armed forces.
The Kh-22 missiles were introduced by the USSR in the 1950s in response to the British Blue Steel system. The first prototypes appeared in 1962, and their official introduction for use on Tu-22 bombers took place in 1967. Since then, the missiles have undergone numerous modifications. For instance, versions with nuclear warheads, the Kh-22MA and Kh-22PSI, appeared in the 1970s. These modernisations have enhanced their effectiveness on the modern battlefield.
The Kh-22 missiles are large rockets, measuring about 11 metres in length and weighing over 5,000 kilograms, with 950 kilograms being the warhead. After detaching from the carrier aircraft, the missile ascends to a height of about 19 kilometres and then reaches a speed of about 3,600 kilometres per hour. In the final phase of the attack, the speed increases to 4,900 kilometres per hour, which, combined with the missile's launch weight, causes significant destruction upon striking the target.
