Russia's Oreshnik Hypersonic Missile: What to Know About the New Weapon Used Against Ukraine

Russia has deployed its nuclear-capable Oreshnik ballistic missile at least three times in its war on Ukraine, including recent strikes targeting areas near Kyiv and western Ukraine. Moscow claims the weapon is a state-of-the-art hypersonic system designed to evade air defenses, though military analysts have expressed skepticism about its capabilities.

The Oreshnik represents part of Russia's escalating arsenal in the ongoing conflict. According to Russian officials, the missile possesses advanced features intended to overcome Ukrainian and Western air defense systems. However, independent military experts have questioned whether the weapon performs as Moscow claims, noting gaps between Russian propaganda and documented battlefield performance. The deployment of such systems reflects Russia's strategy to develop weapons it believes can penetrate defended airspace.