Kinzhal Missile

Kinzhal Missile
 

News: Russia recently fired hypersonic Kinzhal missiles as part of a massive wave of strikes on Ukraine.
 

What are Hypersonic Missiles?
 A hypersonic missile is a weapon system which flies at least at the speed of Mach 5 i.e. five times the speed of sound and is maneuverable.
 These missiles are extremely fast and far harder for surface-to-air missile defence systems to target.
 

About Kinzhal:
 The Kh-47M2, nicknamed 'Kinzhal' (Dagger), is a nuclear-capable, Russian air-launched ballistic missile.
 The Kinzhal can reach speeds of up to Mach 10 (12,350 km/hr).
 It can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads with a payload of up to 480 kg and a thermonuclear option with a 10-50 kt warhead.
 Range - 1,500-2,000 km.
 This missile maneuvers during all stages of its flight to overcome hostile air defense systems.