Zircon (3M22)
Type: Hypersonic Missile
Domain: sea
Country of Origin: Russia
Manufacturer: NPO Mashinostroyeniya
First Deployed: 2023
Overview
The 3M22 Zircon is Russia's hypersonic sea-launched cruise/anti-ship missile developed by NPO Mashinostroyeniya. It achieves estimated Mach 8-9 during its boost and terminal phases with a range quoted at 1,000+ km. Launched from the 3S14 UKSK VLS aboard Admiral Gorshkov-class frigates and Yasen-M submarines. The plasma cloud surrounding the missile at hypersonic speeds provides inherent stealth properties. Russia conducted first-ever Zircon combat launch from Admiral Gorshkov in January 2023. The missile can engage both surface ships and land targets. Current production numbers are believed to be small.
Technical Specifications
| status | Operational (2023) |
|---|---|
| guidance | Active radar seeker + inertial navigation |
| range_km | 1000 |
| weight_kg | 3000 |
| warhead_kg | 400 |
| flight_profile | Low-altitude sea-skimming terminal phase |
| max_speed_mach | 9 |
| launch_platforms | Admiral Gorshkov class, Yasen-M submarine (from torpedo tubes) |
Operators
- Russia
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