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Category — GS Paper 2 ///Published — 2026-05-25 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — International Relations, Science & Technology, Defence & Security ///Category — GS Paper 2 ///Published — 2026-05-25 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — International Relations, Science & Technology, Defence & Security ///

News · GS Paper 2

Russia's Oreshnik Hypersonic Missile: Features and Implications

Russia deployed the Oreshnik hypersonic ballistic missile against Ukraine, marking its third use in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The intermediate-range missile, capable of carrying multiple conventional and nuclear warheads, travels at Mach 10 speed, making it extremely difficult to intercept. This development highlights the evolving nature of modern warfare and raises significant implications for global missile defence systems.

2026-05-25

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Background

The Oreshnik missile represents Russia's latest addition to its strategic weapons arsenal. Named after the Russian word for "hazel tree" or "hazelnut tree," this hypersonic weapon was reportedly used during large-scale attacks on Ukraine, drawing international attention to the escalating nature of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Key Features

Technical Specifications

Type: Hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile
Speed: Travels at approximately Mach 10 (nearly ten times the speed of sound)
Warhead Capability: Can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads
Multiple Warhead System: Designed to deploy multiple warheads, enabling strikes on different targets or wider areas of impact
System Linkage: Believed to be linked to the RS-26 Rubezh missile system

Strategic Capabilities

Ability to strike military infrastructure
Precision targeting of command centres
Capacity to attack air bases
Effectiveness against deeply buried targets
Complicated air defence interception due to multiple-warhead capability

Significance

Military Implications

The deployment of Oreshnik missiles creates a significant challenge for existing missile defence systems globally. The Mach 10 speed makes interceptor systems largely ineffective, representing a qualitative leap in missile technology and strike capability.

Comparison with Nuclear Capabilities

Russia claims that multiple Oreshnik missile strikes could cause destruction comparable to nuclear strikes, blurring the lines between conventional and strategic warfare.

Global Security Implications

Raises questions about the effectiveness of current missile defence architectures
Challenges existing arms control frameworks
Potentially destabilizing in the context of escalation risks
Implications for strategic stability in Europe and globally

India's Position

India has maintained a balanced stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, emphasizing sovereign state rights and seeking peaceful resolution through diplomatic means. This development is significant for India's defence planning and strategic calculus.