Russia adopts new air-to-air missiles with nuclear warheads

Defense Express reported the information, citing U.S. intelligence data.

The intelligence report states that Russia is expanding its nuclear arsenal by developing or upgrading air-to-air missiles with nuclear warheads. While missiles like the old R-33 have existed since Soviet times, attention is now focused on new or modernized models - primarily the R-37 (RVV-BD), which is actively used from MiG-31 and Su-35 fighter jets, as well as the advanced KS-172, which can reach a range of 400 km with a warhead weighing 50 kg.

"A distinctive feature of this two-stage missile is its rather powerful active radar homing head, which, according to declarations, can lock onto a target at a distance of 80–100 km. The intended carriers of this missile are the Su-35 and Su-57," the report notes.

These missiles have warheads capable of carrying low-yield nuclear charges (up to 5 kilotons). Their original purpose was to target groups of bombers, as envisioned during the Cold War era, when a nuclear payload compensated for limited accuracy and allowed for the simultaneous destruction of multiple targets.

However, in modern conditions, this concept appears outdated, as aerial attacks are conducted differently today, Defense Express notes.

"At the same time, if Russia is investing resources into such systems, it clearly sees some rationale behind doing so," the outlet adds.

• Russian leader Vladimir Putin said that on November 21, 2024, Russia had tested the Oreshnik medium-range ballistic missile during an attack on Ukraine's Dnipro city.