Probably some people are wondering what do I think about the most recent #hyperhype a la Russe, I mean TASS source claiming test of some hypersonic missile from Tu-22M3 long-range bomber for its future modenized Tu-22M3M version. (tass.com/defense/1154995). Let's make a thread!
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I am lazy and won't add links, but feel free to ask for those, as I may be in more helping mood some other day.
So, first idea (incl. by some idiots in RU media) - rumors about Kinzhal mated w/ Backfire are true! Well, it is the easiest thought, but...very improbable.
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So, first idea (incl. by some idiots in RU media) - rumors about Kinzhal mated w/ Backfire are true! Well, it is the easiest thought, but...very improbable.
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MiG-31 is one of its kind. It can fly fast and high, and launch huge missiles. Still, the "-K", which is part of "Kinzhal" system most likely suffered a lot in terms of performance. Taking off, flying, launching or landing with a thing this big is a challenge in itself.
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Tu-22M3 is another deal. Also flies fast, but its mission is different: penetrate air defenses rather than chase the penetrators. It indeed can carry quite serious beasts (Kh-22 is massive), but can it be used as a 'first stage' for a Kinzhal-type hypersonic missile? Doubt it.
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But here's the thing - Tu-22M3 was used as a test-bed for a joint hypersonic flight research project with MBDA, the LEA.
And another thing - there were quite a number of rumors and comments saying that there will be a special hypersonic guided missile for long-range aviation.
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And another thing - there were quite a number of rumors and comments saying that there will be a special hypersonic guided missile for long-range aviation.
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Moreover, there's that gentleman Piotr Butowski, who somehow knows about RU Air Force more than most Russians, and he once claimed that back in 2013 it was disclosed that hypersonic missiles for long-range aviation will be developed in 2 stages: first M6/1500km by 2020(!)...
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...than Mach 12 with 'global coverage' over the next ten years or so.
The first one (M6/1500km) is believed to be known under the name GZUR, or the 'Hypersonic guided missile', developed by Raduga design bureau in Dubna.
I think it may be the one tested recently.
Or not.
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The first one (M6/1500km) is believed to be known under the name GZUR, or the 'Hypersonic guided missile', developed by Raduga design bureau in Dubna.
I think it may be the one tested recently.
Or not.
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Bonus: there will be a zoo of all types and subtypes of air-launched missiles for different platforms and different missions. Many of those will be dual-capable.
Hypersonic missiles are just another step in evolution.
Things will get more complicated for any adversary...
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Hypersonic missiles are just another step in evolution.
Things will get more complicated for any adversary...
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...as well as for production chains, logistics, maintenance, training, etc. domestically.
And, well, trade will be hard for arms control community. But it will be an interesting challenge.
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And, well, trade will be hard for arms control community. But it will be an interesting challenge.
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