Russia showcases new bunker-buster
The Kh-59MKM missile features a tandem penetrating warhead. (Photo: Leonid Nersisyan)
Development of the Kh-59MKM missile typifies recent moves in Russia to modernise air-launched penetrating warhead capabilities.
An upgraded version of the X-59MK air-to-ground guided missile was on display during the MAKS-2021 aviation and space exhibition in Russia on 20-25 July.
Designated Kh-59MKM, the missile was developed by the AY Bereznyak State Machine Building Design Bureau Raduga, which is part of KTRV.
The Kh-59MKM missile is fitted with a penetrating warhead and is designed to engage stationary, robust ground targets located at known coordinates.
| KH-59 SELECTED SPECIFICATIONS | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 930kg |
| Length | 5.7m |
| Wingspan | 1.3m |
| Cruise speed | 900-1,050km/h |
| Maximum range | 285km |
The Kh-59MKM missile uses an interesting design of a tandem penetrating warhead with a main penetrating charge of
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
You may also like
More from Air Warfare
-
![UK MoD unveils first steps for British Army Watchkeeper replacement]()
UK MoD unveils first steps for British Army Watchkeeper replacement
Project Corvus will look for a replacement for the Watchkeeper Mk1 uncrewed aerial system (UAS) that was retired from service in the British Army in March 2025.
-
![Sweden requests approval to pursue Gripen and GlobalEye sales to Peru and Denmark]()
Sweden requests approval to pursue Gripen and GlobalEye sales to Peru and Denmark
The Swedish Government has asked parliament to authorise two possible export sales as part of its 2025 Spring amending budget bill.
-
![Germany confirms loitering munitions contracts for its armed forces]()
Germany confirms loitering munitions contracts for its armed forces
Contracts for the procurement of two platforms have been signed, and will be tested by the German armed forces.
-
![Collins prepares expansion of the US Navy/Marine Tactical Combat Training System Inc II]()
Collins prepares expansion of the US Navy/Marine Tactical Combat Training System Inc II
The company has been negotiating the supply of TCTS II to US allies and partners.
-
![Spanish Air Force receives first converted A330 MRTT]()
Spanish Air Force receives first converted A330 MRTT
The second and third Airbus A330 MRTT for the Spanish Air Force have been undergoing conversion in Getafe, Madrid.
-
![Indonesia commits to further collaboration with Turkey, eyes Kaan jet and MILDEN programmes]()
Indonesia commits to further collaboration with Turkey, eyes Kaan jet and MILDEN programmes
The two countries have already signed defence industrial partnerships in recent years, most recently between Republikorp and Turkish firm Baykar in February 2025.
