President Vladimir Putin announced on Friday that Russia will persist in testing the hypersonic ballistic missile named “Oreshnik,” which was launched at Ukraine the day before. During a televised meeting with Russia’s defense ministry leadership, Putin asserted that the missile is impervious to interception by air defenses and disclosed plans for the commencement of mass production of this new system.
Putin emphasized the unparalleled capabilities of the “Oreshnik” missile, stating that there are currently no existing means to counter or intercept it globally. He affirmed Russia’s commitment to ongoing testing of this cutting-edge system and revealed that the country is also developing additional similar weapons for future evaluation.
Furthermore, Putin clarified that the “Oreshnik” system is not classified as an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) or a strategic weapon. However, due to its formidable striking power, he highlighted that it will yield effects comparable to strategic armaments.
The recent launch of the “Oreshnik” missile at Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk region initially led to accusations from Kyiv that an ICBM had been fired. Subsequent assessments by Western officials identified the weapon as an experimental intermediate-range ballistic missile equipped with multiple warheads. This deployment marked a potential milestone as it may be the first instance of such a weapon being utilized in a conflict.
Putin’s declaration of Russia’s intent to continue testing and eventually produce the “Oreshnik” system underscores the nation’s commitment to advancing its military capabilities. The development of a range of medium- and shorter-range ballistic systems signifies Russia’s strategic focus on enhancing its arsenal with cutting-edge technologies.
