Russia Has Lost Over 400 Kh-22 Missiles: How Many Are Still Operationally Ready.

today, 01:01 316

today, 01:01 316

Lost Russian Kh-22 missiles

The History and Deployment of Kh-22 Missiles

According to Espreso.tv: Aviation expert Kostiantyn Kryvolap has provided insights into the Kh-22 missile system, detailing its origins, accuracy, and Russia's use of these weapons during the war in Ukraine, as well as the status of the Tu-22M3 strategic bombers. Developed in the 1960s, the primary variants of the Kh-22 entered service in 1967. These missiles serve as the main armament for the Tu-22M3 strategic bombers, of which, according to the expert, Russia currently has roughly 25 airworthy units in its arsenal.

Before the full-scale invasion, Russia possessed around 600 Kh-22 missiles. Throughout the conflict in Ukraine, Moscow has launched over 400 of these munitions. A notable detail is that 280 Kh-22 missiles were transferred to Ukraine during the presidencies of Leonid Kravchuk and Leonid Kuchma. The warhead of a Kh-22 missile weighs approximately one ton, underscoring its destructive power and capability to inflict severe damage.

Condition of the Tu-22M3 Strategic Bombers

Kryvolap further noted that

“I believe there are about 25 Tu-22M3 aircraft on the wing”

– a remark that highlights the limited resources of Russia's strategic bomber fleet. Additionally, on June 15, an incident occurred in Russia's Irkutsk region where a Tu-22M3 strategic bomber crashed, though the crew managed to eject safely.

The expert emphasized that following Ukraine's 'Cobweb' operation, the number of operational Tu-22M3 bombers in Russia has significantly declined, potentially affecting the Russian military's ability to deploy these missiles in the future. Consequently, the status of Kh-22 missiles and their launch platforms remains a critical factor in the ongoing military confrontation between Ukraine and Russia.

The deployment of Kh-22 missiles and their Tu-22M3 strategic carriers is a substantial component of Russia's military power. Given the diminishing number of functional bombers and operational mishaps, this could impact Russia's future military campaigns in Ukraine. At the same time, the historical context of Ukraine having received a portion of these missiles highlights the complex dynamics in bilateral relations and their respective military preparedness.