Putin dares the West to a hypersonic missile 'showdown'

Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a high-tech "showdown" between Moscow's new Oreshnik missile and US-developed air defense systems. The suggestion was made during his annual press conference, where he criticized claims that the Oreshnik could be neutralized by existing anti-missile technology.

"If Western experts believe this, they should offer a proposal to us and the US," Putin said, according to a translation of his remarks. "We could agree on a controlled experiment—a 21st-century technological duel." He proposed designating a target in Kyiv where Ukraine could deploy its air defense systems to counter the missile.

"We’ll strike it with the Oreshnik and see the results. We’re open to such an experiment," he added, noting that the exercise could benefit the US by providing valuable data for its military.

Russia unveiled the Oreshnik missile in late November, claiming it reached speeds of up to Mach 10—ten times the speed of sound. Putin described the weapon as capable of evading advanced air defense systems, carrying a cluster payload, and potentially delivering nuclear warheads. Its range reportedly allows it to strike targets across Europe, positioning it as a strategic weapon in Russia's arsenal.

Putin's comments quickly drew criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who dismissed the idea as frivolous in light of ongoing conflict. "People are dying, and he thinks it's 'interesting,'" Zelenskyy wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "Dumbass."

The Oreshnik vs US defenses
Ukraine has prioritized acquiring US-made Patriot missile systems to protect its airspace. Zelenskyy has stated that at least 25 Patriot batteries are needed for comprehensive defense. Currently, Ukraine has four confirmed Patriot systems donated by NATO allies, with five more expected.

Patriot missiles, costing up to $6 million each, have demonstrated effectiveness against some hypersonic threats, including Russia's Kinzhal missile. However, experts question whether they can reliably intercept more advanced munitions like the Oreshnik. These hypersonic weapons, designed for rapid speeds and evasive maneuvers, pose significant challenges to existing defense systems.

Although the Oreshnik has been hailed as a game-changer, questions remain about its availability and operational readiness. Western analysts view it as an experimental weapon, and Russia's recent strike on Dnipro with the Oreshnik was seen as a display of capability rather than a strategic necessity.

Putin claimed on Monday that mass production of the Oreshnik would soon begin, signaling its potential deployment in greater numbers. However, its effectiveness in the field and ability to outmatch Western defenses remain topics of debate.

With information from Business Insider.