The nuclear-capable hypersonic missiles on Russia’s Admiral Kasatonov have raised concerns following threats of retaliation against British and EU vessels. The frigate, reported to be off the German coast near the island of Fehmarn, carries Zircon hypersonic missiles, also known as 3M22 Zircon. These missiles pose a significant challenge to air defense systems due to their high speed.
The Admiral Kasatonov, a part of the Northern Fleet since its completion in 2020, is one of Russia’s most advanced frigates. It can conduct long-range strikes and has anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Images released by Russian state media showed President Vladimir Putin visiting the vessel in Severodvinsk in December 2023.
The deployment of the Admiral Kasatonov, potentially with its location tracker turned off, is part of escalating tensions between Russia and NATO. Reports indicate the destroyer Admiral Levchenko also entered the Baltic Sea region. U.S. intelligence, as highlighted by The Wall Street Journal, suggests that Russia might consider a small-scale assault on NATO territories to test the alliance’s resolve.
The range of the Zircon missiles, up to 660 miles, places several NATO countries, including Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and Poland, within potential reach. This development aligns with a recent U.S. warning of possible Russian actions aimed at challenging NATO commitment to mutual defense under Article 5.
In a related context, President Putin threatened last week to retaliate against British and EU vessels during drills by Russia’s Pacific Fleet. This follows actions against Russia-linked ships, referred to as the “shadow fleet,” which bypass oil sanctions due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Putin described these actions as piracy, stating retaliation would be necessary.
Additionally, Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, has asserted Russia’s right to target merchant ships of enemy states. This posture underscores the ongoing volatility and potential for further conflict in the region.
For further details or inquiries, Newsweek editors Matthew Robinson and Shakeema Edwards can be contacted regarding this developing story.
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