The Economist: Ukraine Developing Missile Capable Of Hitting Moscow
- 24.12.2024, 14:04
It will be hundreds times cheaper than its Western counterparts.
Ukrainian developers of the Trembita missile have stated that its basic range already reaches 200 kilometers, which allows it to reach strategic targets in the Russian Federation. However, a more powerful model is being developed in Ukraine to reach Moscow, The Economist writes, citing Ukrainian military personnel familiar with the matter.
As noted, the basic Trembita is capable of reaching speeds of up to 400 km/h and has a range of 200 km. However, a more powerful model is being developed in Ukraine to reach Moscow.
Last year, the developers stated that the Trembita’s range is 140 kilometers.
The missile’s engine is a “modern remake” of a $200 pulse jet engine, which was first used in the German V-1 bomb in 1944. The engine pipe is a rough draft. Below it hangs a more stylish gray rectangular case, hiding the missile's guidance system and warhead.
The development of the Trembita has been going on for a year and a half. Serial production is scheduled for the period after the final field tests.
According to the publication, it will take at least a year to produce missiles in the quantity, range, and capabilities that could seriously threaten Russia.
So far, the Ukrainian government supports the production of any missile that has shown that it can fly. Private manufacturers are offered a 25% profit, as are drone manufacturers. However, the difficult task is scaling up industrial production — attracting capital, purchasing sensitive equipment from abroad, and ensuring security.
Earlier, the developers noted that the Trembita would be hundreds of times cheaper than Western analogues. According to engineers, the missile can be used as bait for Russian air defense forces, and due to its low price, its sale “will be unprofitable” from an economic point of view.
The missile is being developed by engineers from the PARS volunteer design bureau together with volunteers from the Otpor public organization.