Ukraine’s Neptune cruise missile marks major step in deep-strike capabilities

Ukraine has launched a new 600-mile cruise missile, the Long Neptune, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announcing the missile’s successful use in combat.

The missile, with a range of 620 miles (1,000 kilometres), is a longer version of the Neptune anti-ship missile that gained attention in 2022 after sinking the Russian Black Sea Fleet's flagship, the Moskva. The Long Neptune carries more fuel, extending its reach far beyond the original 120-mile range of the standard Neptune missile, according to a recent article by Forbes.

This advancement is part of Ukraine's broader push to develop domestically produced long-range munitions. Zelenskyy has pledged to produce 100,000 such munitions in 2025, which will include not only Long Neptune missiles but also long-range explosive drones capable of striking targets deep inside Russia. The recent successful use of the Long Neptune missile reportedly targeted an oil refinery in Tuapse, Russia, located about 300 miles from the front line, contributing to a significant reduction in Russian oil production.

The Long Neptune is a crucial addition to Ukraine's arsenal, offering a more potent alternative to the DIY drones that have been used in the conflict. It enhances Ukraine's independence from Western suppliers like the United States and Europe, who have been unreliable or unable to provide enough deep-strike munitions. While the U.S. has shifted its stance under former President Trump, and European allies face production limitations, Ukraine's development of these advanced weapons is a vital step in continuing its military efforts.

With other domestically produced munitions, such as air-launched glide bombs and ground-launched ballistic missiles, on the horizon, Ukraine appears ready to continue its strategic deep strikes against Russian infrastructure. Despite external political pressures for potential ceasefire talks, Zelenskyy's government remains committed to prolonging its defence efforts and escalating attacks into Russian territory if necessary.

By Vugar Khalilov