The cruise missile 'Filin' has been deployed since late summer 2026 as one of Russia's new tools in the war against Ukraine. This missile, designed by the Scientific-Production Organization 'Molniya' in Moscow, is considered a serious threat to Ukraine's air defense systems with a maximum speed of up to 800 kilometers per hour and a range of about 1200 kilometers.
Technical Features of the 'Filin' Missile
The 'Filin' missile, equipped with a turbojet engine and two types of warheads weighing 50 and 100 kilograms, is designed as a modern and efficient weapon. This missile can fly at very low altitudes, and due to its speed and maneuverability, it is difficult for air defense systems to intercept it.
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Military experts believe that if Russia can establish mass production of this missile, the pressure on Ukraine's air defense systems will significantly increase. Currently, Russia's defense industries' reliance on foreign electronic components, including 35 American parts and 22 Chinese parts, could pose challenges in the mass production of this missile.
Potential Consequences for Ukraine
If the 'Filin' missile becomes a long-range weapon capable of mass production, the Russian army will be able to use it alongside conventional cruise and ballistic missiles as well as drones. This situation will force Ukraine to divide its limited air defense resources among various threats. If the production of this missile remains limited, although it will pose an additional threat, it will not change the overall picture of the air war.
Serhiy Byskrystenov, an advisor to the President of Ukraine, has predicted that the enemy will rely not only on suicide drones in the future but also on low-cost cruise missiles that are faster and more maneuverable. Given these features, if the production of the 'Filin' missile continues successfully, Ukraine may face new challenges in air defense.
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