Su-30 fighter jets. Photo: Marina Lystseva/TASS.
The Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) have begun to use Kh-59 stand-off precision-guided, air-launched cruise missiles against high-value targets in Ukraine.
On April 4, CCTV photos showing a Kh-59 cruise missile seconds before impacting a facility near the southern Ukrainian city of Mikolaiv surfaced online. The low-flying missile scored a direct hit, inflicted heavy damage on the facility.
Images of the Russian missile attack a few hours ago in #Mykolaiv #Ukraine.
Cameras recorded the moment of approach and impact of a Russian missile on a target in #Mykolaiv #Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/tscJVnKU4Z— JM Donis (@JMDon21696071) April 4, 2022
The version used in the pinpoint strike on Mikolaiv was most likely the Kh-59MK2, which has a range of up to 285 kilometers.
The Kh-59MK2 navigates towards its target with an [INS] inertial navigation system supported by a GLONASS satellite navigation system. For terminal guidance, the missile is equipped with an elector-optical seeker with automatic target recognition.
The cruise missile, which is propelled by a 36MT turbofan engine, can fly at an altitude of 50-300 meters above ground with the help of a radar altimeter. The missiles can be armed with either a 320 kg penetrating or 285 kg pellet warhead depending on the nature of the target.
The Kh-59MK2 was designed to be launched from several types of fighter jets, including Su-24M, Su-30MK, Su-34 and Su-35 and Mig-35.
Stand-off missiles like the Kh-59 provide the VKS with the ability to engage high-value targets deep inside enemy territory with much flexibility. These missiles are also cheaper compared to heavier cruise and ballistic missiles.
The Russian military intensified its aerial operations over Ukraine in the last few days after destroying much of Ukraine’s air force and air defense means.
