Russia equips commonly used Kh-101 missiles with two warheads, making them twice as dangerous

During the last missile attack, Ukrainian air defense shot down a modified Russian Kh-101 cruise missile with dual warhead, one of which was filled with cubic steel fragments.

Defense Express military outlet analyzed the fallen fragments during the March 29 attack.

Its total equivalent has increased from 450 kilograms to about 800 kilograms.

The second warhead has prepared elements in the form of cubic steel fragments to increase combat effectiveness.

Defense Express experts add that such elements are usually used in anti-aircraft missiles, but when used to strike ground targets, they have a significant impact against people.

The installation of an additional warhead was made possible by reducing the size of the fuel tank.

This means a reduction in the range of the X-101, but in the case of a decrease from 5500 km to a conventional 2250 km, this does not matter much.

Russia has modernized the Kh-101 cruise missiles, which are now better than those used  to strike Ukraine in 2022.

As of January 2024, Russia produces about 115-130 strategic missiles plus 100-115 operational-tactical missiles. Production has not increased in recent months.