Vladimir Putin’s military fired its Mach 9 speed Tsirkon hypersonic missile for the first time in an attack in Ukraine, British defence chiefs said on Wednesday.
They believe it may have been launched from a land-based coastal defence system and warned its use, if confirmed, could “present a significant challenge to Ukrainian air defences due to its speed and manoeuvrability”.
In its latest intelligence update, the Ministry of Defence in London said: “According to analysis conducted by the Kyiv Scientific Research Institute for Forensic Examinations, Russia utilised its Tsirkon hypersonic missile in an attack on Ukraine for the first time on 7 February.
“A video of the wreckage allegedly shows fragments of the engine and steering mechanisms with specific markings that are, according to the report, ‘characteristic of the 3M22 Zircon missile’.”
The briefing continued: “Reportedly capable of travelling at Mach 9 up to an effective firing range of 1,000km, Tsirkon was initially developed for use by the Russian Navy.
“The absence of vessels known to carry the missiles in the Black Sea raises questions about the method of launch. It is likely the Russian land-based K-300 coastal defence system has been adapted for this purpose.
“If its use is confirmed, this would present a significant challenge to Ukrainian air defences due to its speed and manoeuvrability.”
The reported launch of the hypersonic weapon contrasts with the very heavy use of drones in the conflict.
Ukraine is seeking to produce a million drones this year, including many long range which can strike as far as Moscow.
Britain has led the world in arming Ukraine to fight Putin’s invasion which is set to enter its third year, first with anti-tank NLAWs (Next generation Light Anti-tank Weapons), Challenger II tanks and long-range artillery.
Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron is urging allies to increase defence production to help Ukraine’s war with Russia, as he headed off for visits to Bulgaria, Poland and Germany.
Kyiv faces ammunition shortages and uncertainty over the future of US military aid, with polls showing Donald Trump could win the US presidential election at the end of the year.
The Foreign Secretary’s discussions are expected to include how to strengthen Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, but will also focus on tackling illegal “small boat” crossings in the Channel.
Lord Cameron was expected to say: “Putin believes he can get away with aggression. That he can wait out the West.
“We have the resources, the economic might and the expertise. We need to show that we have the will to see this through.
“We must stand up for freedom and match our words with action. On sanctions. On support for Ukraine. On defence production.
“And we must show unity - we must all stand with Ukraine and let them - and Russia - know that they have our support for the long haul.”
The Foreign Secretary will also discuss how the UK is trying to support Nato allies to end dependence on Russian energy and tackle cyber threats and disinformation.
At the Munich Security Conference, which takes place from February 16 to 18, he will urge foreign counterparts to boost defence production for Ukraine.
On Monday, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said Germany and Europe’s defence industry must switch towards mass production of arms as the war in Ukraine exposed how European manufacturers struggled to meet demand for ammunition.
US President Joe Biden has urged US lawmakers to pass a multi-billion pound military aid package for Ukraine.
