Russia showcases new bunker-buster
The Kh-59MKM missile features a tandem penetrating warhead. (Photo: Leonid Nersisyan)
Development of the Kh-59MKM missile typifies recent moves in Russia to modernise air-launched penetrating warhead capabilities.
An upgraded version of the X-59MK air-to-ground guided missile was on display during the MAKS-2021 aviation and space exhibition in Russia on 20-25 July.
Designated Kh-59MKM, the missile was developed by the AY Bereznyak State Machine Building Design Bureau Raduga, which is part of KTRV.
The Kh-59MKM missile is fitted with a penetrating warhead and is designed to engage stationary, robust ground targets located at known coordinates.
| KH-59 SELECTED SPECIFICATIONS | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 930kg |
| Length | 5.7m |
| Wingspan | 1.3m |
| Cruise speed | 900-1,050km/h |
| Maximum range | 285km |
The Kh-59MKM missile uses an interesting design of a tandem penetrating warhead with a main penetrating charge of
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