Russia deploys new “Filin” cruise missile with 3D-printed components against Ukraine

Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense has reported that since late summer, Russian forces have begun using a new cruise missile called “Filin” against Ukraine — a low-cost, jet-propelled, ground-launched munition, several components of which are manufactured using 3D printing.

The missile was developed by the Molniya scientific and production association, which is part of the Tactical Missiles Corporation. According to the GUR, the “Filin” belongs to a line of low-cost, jet-propelled, ground-launched air attack weapons that the Russian defense industry is actively developing.

The missile’s fuselage, 3.5 meters in length, is made of composite material — carbon fiber and fiberglass. The wingspan is 3 meters. Individual structural components are manufactured using 3D-printing technology. The maximum speed declared by the manufacturer is 800 km/h, with a range of up to 1,200 km. The missile is capable of flying at very low altitudes — down to 6 meters. It is produced in two versions: with a warhead weighing 50 and 100 kg. Launch is carried out from a ground-based launcher using a powder booster.

The missile’s onboard equipment is produced by PLAZ LLC — the same company involved in the production of the Harpiya UAV, which is a modification of the Geran-2. The guidance system, as in the Geran-2, is based on a Chinese navigation system and a 16-channel “Kometa.” The missile’s electronics incorporate 35 American and 22 Chinese components. The engine is the Russian R500 from Reynolds LLC; an identical engine was previously identified in the S-71K “Kover” cruise missile.

The day before, the GUR reported that Russia’s stockpiles of ballistic missiles stand at around 700 units, and attack drones at more than 6,000.