During a televised marathon, Yuri Ignat, Head of the Communications Department of the Ukrainian Air Force, outlined key details regarding the operation of Russian hypersonic "Tsirkon" missiles and the possibilities of their interception by the Ukrainian air defense system. According to him, destroying a "Tsirkon" flying on a ballistic trajectory is technically possible — but the problem lies not in technology, but in the shortage of munitions.
"Tsirkon" — Not a Myth, but a Real Threat
Russia positions the "Tsirkon" as a hypersonic anti-ship missile; however, according to Ignat, it is multi-functional and is successfully used for strikes against ground targets. At the same time, the Air Force representative emphasized that the term "hypersonic" in this case is more of a propaganda move. The missile's speed is indeed impressive — up to Mach 10 — but this is achieved by climbing to an altitude of over 40 km, where the air is thin, and the missile moves along a ballistic trajectory.
Patriot Can, But Not Always in Time
The Patriot air defense system is capable of intercepting missiles of this type. However, as Ignat noted, the statistics speak for themselves: if Ukrainian units have missiles for the Patriot — interception is possible. If they don't — even with the presence of anti-aircraft systems, the target reaches its objective. "The enemy, knowing about the shortage, deliberately increases the use of 'Tsirkons'," he added.
Mobility of "Bastion" Changes Tactics
Previously, "Tsirkons" were launched primarily from the territory of Crimea. Today the situation has changed: strikes are coming from the northern direction. The reason is the mobility of the "Bastion" coastal missile complex, which can be rapidly moved between regions and launch strikes from unexpected points. This complicates forecasting and defense planning.
What's Next?
Ukraine continues to look for ways to strengthen its air defense system. Earlier, RBC-Ukraine wrote about whether the country can create its own missile "sword" and whose experience it should rely on. There have also already been recorded cases of successfully repelling attacks using "Tsirkons" — proving that with resources and coordination, defense is possible. Meanwhile, the ISW explained the motives behind the strike on the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra — but that is another story.