Leaked Russian documents reveal the production of a new Iskander 1000 ballistic missile, a modernized 9M723-2 variant with a range of up to 1,000 kilometers, capable of striking numerous European cities. This extended range significantly expands the threat beyond Ukraine, especially as the missiles can be deployed from Russian territory or Kaliningrad. Despite existing sanctions, the missile relies on Western-made components, and not all involved companies are sanctioned. Experts suggest the EU should increase sanctions, improve enforcement, and address the use of Chinese technology to counter this threat.
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During the Zapad-2025 exercises, Russia has deployed Iskander-M missile systems in the Kaliningrad region, positioning them within striking distance of several NATO countries. At least two launchers carrying 9M723 ballistic missiles were spotted near the Polish border, with a range of approximately 500 kilometers, putting nearly all of Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, parts of Estonia, and other areas within reach. The deployment, a part of exercises involving up to 30,000 troops, has prompted responses from NATO, including contingency plans and the Eastern Sentry mission, particularly after Russian drone violations. The Iskander’s ability to launch various missiles and its mobile nature pose significant challenges for detection and rapid repositioning.
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The Russian Ministry of Defense stated a missile strike in Chernihiv, conducted with the Iskander system, targeted combatants and vehicles, presenting it as a precise military action. However, Ukrainian officials reported the strike hit a humanitarian demining mission operated by the Danish Refugee Council, resulting in fatalities and injuries. Ukrainian and international officials condemned the attack, denouncing it as a deliberate targeting of humanitarian efforts and a violation of international law. This act was seen as further evidence of Russia’s ongoing aggression, with calls for accountability and continued support for Ukraine.
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A Ukrainian missile strike on June 5th successfully targeted a Russian 26th Missile Brigade near Klintsy, Bryansk Oblast, destroying one Iskander missile launcher and damaging two others. This unit had been preparing to strike Ukrainian territory before the attack. The strike, attributed to coordinated efforts between Ukrainian Armed Forces and Security Service, aimed to degrade Russia’s offensive capabilities, particularly its precision strike capacity. The incident occurred amidst a broader night of Russian drone and missile attacks on Ukraine.
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On June 5th, Ukrainian forces successfully struck a Russian missile unit near Klintsy, Bryansk Oblast, destroying one Iskander missile launcher and damaging two others. This targeted strike, enabled by effective reconnaissance and inter-agency coordination, aimed to degrade Russia’s offensive capabilities, specifically targeting the 26th Missile Brigade which had attempted to fire on Ukraine. The attack followed a Russian barrage of 103 drones and one Iskander-M missile into Ukraine. Assessments of Russian casualties are ongoing, with no reported civilian casualties.
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On the night of June 1-2, Russia launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine, employing 80 Shahed drones, decoy drones, and four Iskander missiles (three ballistic, one cruise). The assault primarily targeted Kharkiv, Chernihiv, Donetsk, and Kherson oblasts, resulting in hits at 12 locations. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 52 aerial targets; 15 were directly destroyed, while 37 were lost from radar or neutralized via electronic warfare. The defense involved diverse units, including aircraft, anti-aircraft missiles, and electronic warfare systems.
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John Q. Hosedrinker