SOURCE: API
On May 5, 2023, “Defense Express,” the Ukrainian defense website, reported that the Ukrainian air defense had achieved a significant victory by intercepting a Russian Kh-47 Kinzhal hypersonic missile. The successful interception was carried out using the highly advanced American Patriot PAC-3 air defense missile system.
The Kinzhal missile is a cutting-edge Russian weapon that is considered to be among the most advanced in its arsenal. The military claims that this air-launched ballistic missile has an impressive range of up to 2,000km (1,250 miles) and can fly at a speed ten times faster than sound, making it an incredibly challenging target to intercept.
According to Oleshchuk, the Kh-47 missile was fired from Russian territory by a MiG-31K aircraft and was successfully neutralized by a single Patriot missile. The Ukrainian military had previously acknowledged a shortage of resources to intercept this supersonic weapon.
The American Patriot PAC-3 air defense missile system is a highly advanced weapon system that is designed to intercept both tactical ballistic missiles and cruise missiles. Its capability to intercept hypersonic missiles, such as the Kh-47 Kynzhal, demonstrates the effectiveness and superiority of the system in the modern battlefield.
In conclusion, the successful interception of the Russian Kh-47 Kynzhal hypersonic missile by the Ukrainian air defense using the American Patriot PAC-3 air defense missile system is a remarkable accomplishment. It highlights the strength and competence of the Ukrainian air defense forces and their dedication to safeguarding their nation’s sovereignty.