Russia has reportedly deployed the Oréshnik, a hypersonic, intermediate-range ballistic missile, in its latest offensive against Ukraine. The missile, designed for potential nuclear warfare scenarios, can reach a suborbital altitude and carry up to six explosive warheads – either nuclear or conventional. Its high speed and limited warning time make interception by existing air defense systems extremely difficult.
A New Generation of Weaponry
The Oréshnik is distinguished by its Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) system. Unlike conventional missiles that deliver a single warhead, the Oréshnik fragments in the final phase of its trajectory, releasing multiple warheads to strike simultaneous targets. These warheads re-enter the atmosphere at higher speeds than older rockets, potentially destroying underground bunkers through sheer impact force alone.
On the night of Thursday, January 9, 2026, Russian forces launched the Oréshnik alongside 35 other missiles and 242 drones targeting the Lviv province, which borders Poland. The weapon was previously used in November 2024 against the Dnipropetrovsk region.
Hypersonic Capabilities and Intelligence Assessments
President Putin has stated the missile is capable of reaching speeds of Mach 10, or approximately 12,300 kilometers per hour. However, Western intelligence, including the “Five Eyes” alliance – comprised of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand – suggests the Oréshnik is a modification of an earlier model. According to the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), the S-26 (SS-X-31 designation) is a larger missile, generally categorized as an Intercontinental or Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (ICBM or IRBM).
The use of this weapon, according to existing arms control agreements between Russia and the United States, requires Moscow to notify Washington of its launch. The RS-26 Rubezh is a solid-fuel missile with a maximum range of approximately 6,000 kilometers and can carry conventional explosives, nuclear warheads, or hypersonic Avangard glide vehicles.
Escalation and International Response
Moscow claims the Oréshnik launch was in response to a purported Ukrainian attack on a residence of President Putin in the Novgorod region of Russia in December 2025, an allegation Ukrainian authorities have dismissed as a fabrication intended to sabotage peace negotiations.
Kaja Kallas, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs, stated the Russian bombardment, including the use of the Oréshnik, is “a clear escalation against Ukraine and a warning to Europe and the United States,” and urged increased sanctions against Russia. She further stated, “Putin does not want peace. Russia’s reply to diplomacy is more missiles and destruction. This deadly pattern of recurring major Russian strikes will repeat itself until we help Ukraine break it.”
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha warned that such an attack near the borders of the European Union and NATO poses a serious threat to European security and a test for the transatlantic community. He also dismissed Russia’s justification as based on a “false ‘attack on Putin’s residence’ that never occurred.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a MIRV system?
The Oréshnik utilizes a Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) system, meaning the missile can release multiple warheads to strike several targets simultaneously, unlike a conventional missile with a single warhead.
What is the range of the Oréshnik missile?
The Oréshnik is an intermediate-range ballistic missile, capable of reaching a maximum range of approximately 6,000 kilometers, as stated regarding the RS-26 Rubezh.
Does Russia notify the United States before launching this type of missile?
According to existing arms control agreements between Russia and the United States, Moscow is required to notify Washington of any launch of this type of weapon.
Given the escalating nature of the conflict, what further steps might Russia take, and how might the international community respond?
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