The Economist explains

What are the “hypersonic” missiles Russia has used in Ukraine?

Vladimir Putin calls the weapons invincible, but they may change little in the war

MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 24: MIG-31k fighter jet, with Kinzhal missile system, performs during Victory Day in Red Square in Moscow, Russia on June 24, 2020. Victory Day parades, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the victory in World War II, have been postponed from 9 May to 24 June due to restrictions imposed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19) in the country. (Photo by Sefa Karacan/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

Editor’s note (March 10th 2023): This piece has been updated after a Russian strike with hypersonic missiles on March 9th.

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