Russian Kh-69 cluster warhead missiles: new threat to Ukraine’s infrastructure

Defense Express reported the information.

On the night of November 8, 2024, according to Ukraine's Air Force, Russia launched four Kh-69 cruise missiles at Ukraine, all of which were intercepted and destroyed. At least one of these downed missiles carried a cluster warhead, indicating Russia continues to equip Kh-69 missiles with cluster munitions.

The use of Kh-69 missiles with cluster warheads was first observed around October 19, 2024. Images from that time revealed that the submunitions are spherical. 

The number and dispersion area of these submunitions remain unknown. However, the Kh-69 with this configuration poses a high risk, likely intended for increased destruction of civilian infrastructure and to hinder repairs, as demining teams must clear submunitions before other work can proceed.

The Kh-69 has a range of up to 400 kilometers, a launch weight of 800 kilograms, and a warhead weighing 310 kilograms. It was first used in Ukraine in February 2024 and was notably deployed to destroy the Trypillia power plant in April.