Russia is using new types of missiles against Ukraine – “Zircon” and “Oreshnik” – but launches them individually rather than in large numbers. This tactic is intended to have a demonstrative and psychological effect, aimed not only at Ukraine but also at Western partners, according to an interview with RBC-Ukraine by Colonel Yuriy Ignat, head of communications for the Air Force Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Ignat emphasized that the Air Force does not officially use the name “Oreshnik.” It refers to a medium-range ballistic missile that Russia calls this way, but which is actually a modernized version of the Soviet “Rubezh” missile.
This missile was used by Russia to strike Dnipro and Lviv. The main goal of such launches is not military effect but demonstration.
“It’s a signal to Western partners. Lviv is close to NATO borders, and Russia is trying to show that it has weapons that are supposedly impossible to intercept,” Ignat explained.
He added that the Kremlin is using this tactic to exert psychological pressure on the West, aiming to influence support for Ukraine and push partners toward concessions in negotiations.
Ignat also commented on the use of the “Zircon” missile. This is an anti-ship missile, which Russia is using atypically – for strikes on land targets.
“Zircon” launches were carried out from occupied Crimea against Kharkiv, Kyiv, and Vinnytsia regions, but the number of launches was limited.
According to the Air Force representative, the “Zircon” climbs to altitudes above 40 kilometers and attacks along a ballistic trajectory, similar to the Kh-22 missile. However, these missiles have been repeatedly intercepted by Ukrainian air defense.
“Of course, for this to happen, the Patriot system has to be in the right place at the right time,” Ignat added
