In the heart of Ukraine, Sapsan and Hrim-2 have reportedly taken strides in the development of Kyiv's latest ballistic missile project. On August 28, President Zelensky announced the successful testing of the nation's initial locally manufactured ballistic missile, without providing further details. Although Ukraine had ballistic missiles in its arsenal previously, "new" may refer to an extended range or payload.
Boasting a range of up to 1000 kilometers and a payload of around 500 kilograms, Ukraine's domestically produced ballistic missiles promise to dramatically enhance Kyiv's strategic aerial counteroffensive against Russia. Targets such as fuel storage facilities, refineries, airports, and political strongholds, like Moscow, are ripe for engagement.
Currently, Kyiv's aerial operations are primarily conducted using light aircraft-powered drones, which have a considerable reach but are susceptible to ground-based machine gun teams. The limited capabilities of these drones make them prone to interception, while ballistic missiles require a sophisticated air defense network and significantly shorter reaction times.
As an equivalent to Russia's Iskander missiles, the Kyiv missile would provide Kyiv with the ability to combat aircraft, rocket launchers, and stationary targets, including those deep within Russia's territory. The Iskander missiles, capable of striking targets scattered along the frontline, have already proven their effectiveness in the Kursk region, where Russian forces were taken by surprise and engaged by the Ukrainians.
The development of these ballistic missiles in Ukraine, under constant threat from Russia, is a significant achievement. The nation has always possessed the expertise necessary for missile production, with the Pivdenne Design Bureau at the forefront of this effort in the Soviet era. However, financial constraints have hindered progress in the past. After 2014/15, renewed efforts have been made to complete the program, including the acquisition of a test battery and securing funds for its completion.
Though President Zelensky did not offer additional information, it is suspected that the ballistic missile is an extended-range variant of the Sapsan system or Hrim-2. The Hrim-2, a short-range ballistic missile system designed for export with a restricted range, has a range of 280 kilometers.
In conclusion, the successful development and deployment of Kyiv's domestically produced ballistic missile could potentially shift the balance of power in the ongoing conflict with Russia, as these missiles have the range to reach crucial strategic targets within Russian territory. While Ukraine has made significant strides,並未確定大量生產的可能性，以及發射的大型車輛的完成。擁有更長的射程的球體火箭將對俄羅斯的空軍基地和武器廠造成嚴重威脅。此外，俄羅斯將需要良好的空中防御來保護其大城市。
