By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Ukraine has revealed a new Neptune cruise missile variant featuring bulges likely for increased fuel capacity, suggesting an extended range. This missile, distinct from the longer-range Long Neptune, was showcased to Western dignitaries alongside other domestically developed weapons systems. The Neptune family, originally designed for anti-ship roles, has become crucial for striking targets inside Russia, with existing versions reportedly hitting over 50 Russian targets in the past year. This continued development of the Neptune family is part of a larger push by Ukraine to enhance its domestic arms production.
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New ‘Bulged’ Neptune Cruise Missile Variant Emerges In Ukraine, and it’s definitely causing a stir, as if the original wasn’t already a headache for the Russian forces. The “bulge,” which is the key visual feature here, is clearly the defining characteristic that separates this new variant from its predecessors, and it’s sparking all sorts of speculation, both serious and… well, let’s just say creative.
This “bulge” is the focal point. One could be forgiven for imagining conformal fuel tanks, the kind that hug the missile’s body, but these look a bit different. They are strangely positioned and give off a unique appearance. It makes you wonder if they are designed to carry extra fuel, thus extending the missile’s range, or maybe there’s some kind of advanced anti-radar technology tucked away in there. The shape, well, it’s definitely got a certain… silhouette, which has led to some rather colorful commentary. The internet, as always, has wasted no time in turning this into a meme.
The location of the bulge is significant, because a midshaft bulge is a departure from traditional fuel tank placement, making its purpose unclear. Perhaps it’s a cunning design element, aiming to minimize radar visibility by scattering the signal, or maybe it’s just good old-fashioned conformal fuel tanks, as some have suggested, but its shape is a little unusual for extra fuel. The design is probably a compromise, balancing various factors like range, radar signature, and of course, the overall aerodynamics of the missile.
The potential impact on the missile’s performance is the real question. An increase in range is the most obvious benefit, even an extra 10, 20 or more kilometers could be the difference between a target being in range or not. A longer range is a serious game-changer, allowing Ukrainian forces to reach deeper into Russian-held territory. This would give them access to more strategically valuable targets, like refineries and airfields, which would certainly put pressure on Russia’s supply lines.
The addition of extra sensors or electronic warfare (EW) capabilities is also a possibility. The bulge could house advanced terrain mapping cameras, aimed at aiding course corrections and minimizing the impact of jamming attempts. This could mean a more precise and reliable weapon, able to hit its targets with greater accuracy. Whatever the function, the Ukrainian forces appear to be showcasing it, which may be strategically significant.
The deployment of this new variant begs the question: have they actually used it in an attack yet? While the answer remains unconfirmed, the public display of the missile strongly suggests that its capabilities are being tested and refined. Perhaps these images are a calculated move designed to send a message, to signal to the Russians that their defenses are being tested and that more effective weapons are now available. The “bulge” itself is a visual statement, a clear sign of innovation and continued development.
This “bulge” is also making people wonder about the missile’s ability to evade enemy defenses. It’s likely that the designers have prioritized this aspect, incorporating features to minimize radar detection and electronic warfare countermeasures. The irregular shape is a key element, as it could be specifically designed to cause the radar signals to scatter. This might explain the unconventional appearance of the missile’s new “bulge”. It’s a strategic advantage in modern warfare, as it makes it harder for the enemy to detect and target the missile before impact.
The conversations around this new variant go on, with talk of bees and the idea of having the missile equipped with a Kalman filter, so it knows exactly where it is at all times. It’s a blend of serious military analysis with a dose of internet humor and absurdity. Ultimately, this “bulged” Neptune missile variant is a sign of the ongoing conflict’s evolution, with each side constantly looking to innovate and gain an edge.
And while there is plenty of speculation, one thing is certain: the emergence of this new variant is significant. The implications for the conflict are potentially vast. The ability to reach targets more effectively and with greater precision will significantly alter the battlefield dynamics. The “bulge” Neptune is a symbol of the conflict itself: ever-evolving, unpredictable, and constantly pushing the boundaries of military technology. It’s a clear sign that the war is far from over, and the Ukrainians are showing they are ready to innovate and adapt to achieve victory.