Moscow plans to conduct a final test of a new ballistic missile capable of striking targets hundreds of miles away. This development could pose a significant challenge to Ukraine’s air defenses. Ukrainian military officials anticipate the test in the coming months, with potential live-fire strikes.
Vadym Skibitskyi, deputy head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, shared that Russia aims to test a ballistic missile with a range of up to 800 kilometers by year’s end. This information came from a meeting with the Ukraine-NATO Interparliamentary Council. Experts worry this missile’s advanced maneuverability could necessitate more sophisticated interceptors for Ukraine.
If this 800-kilometer missile has advanced maneuverability, that will create significant problems for Ukraine,said Tom Karako, director of the Missile Defense Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
Reports indicate Russia may test these missiles during live-fire exercises, targeting locations in western Ukraine. This aligns with typical wartime practices of developmental testing followed by operational deployment.
The missile falls within a range once prohibited by the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. This treaty, signed in 1987 by the United States and the Soviet Union, banned ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 kilometers. The U.S. exited the treaty in 2019 over alleged Russian violations.
Missiles and artillery have played a crucial role in Russia’s military strategy against Ukraine. Ukrainian reports suggest that Russian missile production has increased to 110%-120% of monthly targets. From 2026 to late August, Russia launched at least 1,858 missiles of various types at Ukraine, highlighting the ongoing threat.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed concerns over strained air defenses, seeking 100-120 interceptor missiles for the harsh winter months. The demand reflects the intense pressure Ukraine faces in maintaining its defenses amid escalating threats.
The situation also raises broader concerns among other European nations, including Poland, Romania, and the Baltics. They are wary of this growing missile capability.