Name / Designation | Kh-47M2 Kinzhal |
Type / Role | Air-Launched Hypersonic Missile |
Country of Origin | Russia |
Manufacturer | Tactical Missiles Corporation (KTRV) |
Service Entry / Year Introduced | 2017 |
Operational Status | Active |
Range | 1,500–2,000 km |
Speed | Up to Mach 10 |
Ceiling / Altitude Limit | ~50 km |
Accuracy (CEP) | Estimated 1–10 m |
Warhead Type | High-Explosive / Nuclear |
Guidance System | INS + GLONASS |
Targeting Mode | Autonomous |
Launch Platform Compatibility | MiG-31K, Tu-22M3 |
Seeker Type | Radar/Optical (assumed) |
Length | ~7.5 m |
Diameter | 1.0 m |
Wingspan | 0.5 m |
Launch Weight | ~4,300 kg |
Propulsion | Solid-fuel Rocket |
Warhead Weight | 480–500 kg |
Explosive Type | HE / Nuclear |
Detonation Mechanism | Impact / Proximity |
Payload Options | Conventional / Nuclear |
Operational Range Type | Long |
Deployment Platform | Air |
Target Types | Ships, Bunkers, Command Centers |
Combat Proven | Limited Use |
Users / Operators | Russia |
The Kh-47M2 Kinzhal (NATO reporting name: AS-24 Killjoy) is a cutting-edge air-launched hypersonic missile developed by Russia’s Tactical Missiles Corporation (KTRV). Entering service around 2017, the Kinzhal represents one of the most advanced hypersonic strike weapons in operational use, designed primarily for high-speed precision attacks against high-value land and naval targets.
Derived from the Iskander-M short-range ballistic missile, the Kinzhal has been modified for air-launch capability, typically deployed from the MiG-31K interceptor or Tu-22M3 bomber. Its hypersonic velocity and evasive flight profile make it nearly impossible for existing missile defense systems to intercept.
The Kinzhal can reach Mach 10 (approximately 12,000 km/h) and boasts a range of 1,500–2,000 km when launched from high altitude. It carries either a 500 kg high-explosive or nuclear warhead, making it suitable for both conventional and strategic missions. Its guidance combines inertial navigation (INS) with GLONASS satellite correction, ensuring high accuracy even at extreme speeds.
The missile’s hypersonic trajectory enables rapid engagement of time-sensitive targets, including air defense sites, command centers, and naval vessels. Its maneuvering flight path significantly reduces radar tracking and interception probability.
The Kinzhal has been fielded with the Russian Aerospace Forces and has reportedly seen limited combat use in recent conflicts. Its development underscores Russia’s focus on hypersonic deterrence and anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) capabilities.
While the Kinzhal is not available for export, defense analysts estimate that a system comparable in development and integration costs could exceed $10–15 million per unit, reflecting its advanced hypersonic technology.
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