Russia Unveils Design of 3M22 Zircon Hypersonic Missile for the First Time

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – For the first time, Russia’s Ministry of Defence has unveiled the actual design of its 3M22 Zircon (Tsirkon) hypersonic missile through a video showcasing the missile’s launch during a military exercise in the Mediterranean Sea.

This marks a significant milestone in the hypersonic missile race, highlighting Russia’s advanced capabilities in developing hypersonic weaponry.

Introduced by the Ministry of Defence in 2018, the Zircon underwent rigorous testing beginning in 2020.

Since then, it has achieved several key milestones, including successful test launches from surface warships and the nuclear-powered submarine Severodvinsk in 2021.

Frequently described as a sophisticated weapon system capable of reshaping modern warfare dynamics, the Zircon represents a pivotal development in Russia’s arsenal.

The Zircon was deployed in combat for the first time in January 2023, marking a critical step in operationalizing hypersonic missile technology.

In March, Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed its active deployment in combat, including its use in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

This deployment underscores the incorporation of hypersonic weapons into international military strategies.

Known by NATO as SS-N-33, the Zircon is an anti-ship missile capable of traveling at hypersonic speeds, allowing minimal reaction time for adversaries.

With a top speed of Mach 9 (11,000 km/h) and a range of up to 1,000 km, its performance depends on its flight trajectory.

At lower altitudes, the missile can strike targets within 500 km, while in a semi-ballistic trajectory, it can achieve extended ranges.

The Zircon employs a two-stage propulsion system, combining a solid-fuel booster for its initial launch with a scramjet engine for sustained hypersonic flight, ensuring high speed and maneuverability.

One of its unique attributes is its versatility, enabling launches from various platforms, including surface warships, submarines, and coastal launch systems, granting Russia significant strategic flexibility.

Additionally, it can be equipped with either conventional or nuclear warheads.

The operational deployment of the Zircon has profound implications for international military dynamics, particularly for the United States and its European allies.

Its speed and ability to penetrate existing air defense systems pose a considerable challenge to current defense technologies.

To date, no proven countermeasure exists to neutralize hypersonic missile threats, meaning adversaries are largely unable to intercept the Zircon, especially when launched from distant positions.

This advancement solidifies Russia’s strategic edge in the evolving hypersonic arms race. – DSA