Russia suffered heavy losses in the three-year war, use of hypersonic missiles increased

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine for the last three years has attracted the world’s attention. In this long and destructive war, Russia has suffered massive losses despite its strength and resources. According to the data, around 7.80 lakh Russian soldiers have suffered casualties and more than 3,000 tanks have been destroyed. Despite this, Russia has thrown its full force into the war and is continuously attacking Ukraine.

Ukraine has recently claimed that due to this war, Russia has suffered a loss of arms worth about $3 billion till November. Meanwhile, Ukraine has dealt a major blow to Russia by causing major damage to the Russian fleet in the Baltic Sea.

Russia’s increasing military expenditure and three Brahmastras

Russia has increased its military expenditure for this war to 40% of the total government budget. Additionally, Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided to field three lethal hypersonic missiles – Kinzhal, Tsirkon, and Oreshnik – into combat.

1. Kinjal Missile: Unique Hypersonic Weapon

Russia used its Kinzhal missile (Dagger) in the early weeks of the war. This hypersonic ballistic missile is launched from MiG-31 fighter jet.

• Properties:
  • Hypersonic speed: Many times faster than the speed of sound.
  • Target engagement capability: Capable of hitting deep military targets with high accuracy.
  • Introduction: It was introduced by Russian President Putin in 2018 as one of his next generation weapons.

2. Tsirkon Missile: Latest technology missile

Russia used the Tsyrkon missile against Ukraine in early 2024. It is also called Zircon.

• Key Facts:
  • This missile is at least five times faster than the speed of sound.
  • Its testing was successfully completed in 2022.
  • Its capabilities enable it to avoid any radar system.

3. Oreshnik missile: a display of Russian military might

Russia has used Oreshnik missiles in recent attacks on Ukraine. It is a medium range ballistic missile.

• Features:
  • Its speed ranges from Mach 10 to Mach 11 (12,300 km/h).
  • It can also be used for intercontinental attacks.

Future strategies: Tension will increase in the year 2025

Russian President Putin recently announced that Russia will massively increase the production of these missiles by 2025. Also, it will further strengthen its military power through the supply of ballistic missiles from Iran and North Korea.

On the other hand, there is a possibility of a cut in the economic and military aid to Ukraine during the Trump regime in America. This situation may be challenging for Ukraine.