Ukrainian military intelligence reveals new Russian cruise missile 'Filin'

Ukraine's military intelligence agency, the HUR, disclosed information about a recently introduced Russian cruise missile named "Filin" on October 22nd. The agency shared a 3D model of the missile along with a list of its components and electronic systems on their website. According to the HUR, Russia started utilizing the missile at the end of the summer, describing it as a more affordable air attack option with jet propulsion and ground-based launch capabilities.

The Filin missile measures 3.5 meters in length and has a wingspan of 3 meters, capable of carrying either 50 kg or 100 kg warheads. It can operate at low altitudes and reach altitudes up to 6 kilometers, achieving a maximum speed of 800 kilometers per hour and a range of 1,200 kilometers. Some parts of the missile are reportedly 3D printed, while the onboard electronic components, primarily originating from China, exhibit a higher proportion compared to other Russian missiles.

The agency also noted that 35 components of U.S. origin are integrated into the missile. The onboard equipment is manufactured by PLAZ LLC, a company also responsible for producing the Harpiya drone, while the engine is the Russian-made R500, developed by Reynolds LLC. The HUR emphasized that Russia employs both cruise and ballistic missiles to target Ukraine, particularly its energy infrastructure.

On October 22nd, Russian ballistic missiles and cluster munitions struck transport and medical facilities in Kyiv, resulting in at least one death and 24 injuries. President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on the attack, stating that three waves of ballistic strikes were launched by Russian "humanists" on Kyiv that evening. Russian forces initiated a massive combined assault the night before, employing various missile systems, including Iskander-M, S-400, Zircon, Onyx missiles, and 210 drones, with 110 of them being jet-powered. Zelensky confirmed that Russia fired 21 missiles in total.