Oreshnik Missile

 Russia reportedly used its advanced hypersonic ballistic missile called Oreshnik during a strike on Kyiv on 24 May 2026 amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine War. The attack reportedly killed at least two people. This marks the third known use of the Oreshnik missile during the conflict. 

About the Oreshnik Missile

• Oreshnik is described by Russia as a “state-of-the-art” hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM).
• It was first reportedly used in 2024 against the Ukrainian city of Dnipro.
• The missile is capable of carrying:
  • Conventional warheads, and
  • Nuclear warheads.

Key Features

• Range: Russia classifies Oreshnik as an intermediate-range missile. Estimated strike range between 3,000 km and 5,500 km.
• Speed: Travels at approximately Mach 10. This means nearly 10 times the speed of sound, around 2.5–3 km per second.
• Hypersonic Capability: Due to its extremely high speed and maneuverability, the missile is considered very difficult to intercept using current air defence systems.
• Strategic Reach: According to Sergei Karakayev, the missile can strike targets across Europe.