Russia uses rare Kh-55 missile to overwhelm Ukraine’s air defenses

According to Defense Express, Ukrainian sappers in Kyiv discovered and neutralized a Russian Kh-55 cruise missile used during a massive attack on November 28, 2024. This marks a return by Russia to deploying Kh-55 missiles, a tactic not seen for some time, alongside the more commonly used Kh-101 and Kalibr missiles.

The Kh-55, which typically carries a non-explosive dummy warhead during such strikes, was likely intended to overwhelm Ukraine's air defenses. This missile was used in coordination with numerous drones—up to 95 units—highlighting a shift in strategy based on previous large-scale attacks.

Additionally, Russia's use of Kh-55 missiles is significant, as their engines are now repurposed for the newer Kh-101 missiles, making the Kh-55 increasingly scarce. 

These factors reveal a broader context of Russia's evolving tactics during this latest assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure.