Russia's hypersonic missile use raises concerns for Europe and NATO

Russia launched the Oreshnik hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile at Lviv on 8 January, and officials and analysts say its reported speed and range have raised security concerns across Europe and within NATO.

Russian forces used the Oreshnik hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile in a strike on Lviv on 8 January as part of a wider missile and drone attack. Officials have described the missile as nuclear-capable with a reported range of up to 5,500 kilometres. The physical damage from this specific strike was reported as limited to a state enterprise workshop in Lviv. The launch has prompted broader discussion about implications for European and NATO security. Key points: - Officials reported the Oreshnik was launched on 8 January during an intensive overnight attack comprising 278 missiles and drones targeting western, central and southeastern Ukraine. - The missile is reported as hypersonic and intermediate-range, with speed estimates around Mach 10–11 and a claimed range up to 5,500 kilometres. - Initial assessments indicated limited physical damage in Lviv, and some reports say the strike may have used an inert, non-explosive warhead. - Ukraine's foreign minister described Oreshnik as a "grave threat" to European security, and analysts say the launch highlights questions about Western missile-defence capabilities. Summary: The Oreshnik launch highlights the missile's reported reach and speed, which officials and analysts say increase strategic tensions and expose potential vulnerabilities in Western defences. Undetermined at this time.