The Russian military-industrial complex uses Chinese navigation and domestic R500 engines
The Defence Intelligence of Ukraine has disclosed data on the new Russian Filin cruise missile, which the enemy began using in the summer of 2026. The results of the component base analysis and an interactive 3D model of the weapon are available on the War&Sanctions portal. This is reported by the portal PromPolitInform, citing information from Defence Intelligence of Ukraine.
The missile was developed by NPO Molniya, a subsidiary of the Tactical Missiles Corporation. Intelligence experts note that the Filin is another example of the Russian strategy to increase the production of low-cost jet-powered missiles launched from ground-based platforms.
Design features of the Filin
The missile has a 3.5-meter-long fuselage made of carbon and fiberglass, with a wingspan of 3 meters. Some structural elements are created using 3D printing technologies. Despite the stated maximum speed of 800 km/h and a range of up to 1,200 km, the missile is capable of flying at ultra-low altitudes.
The warhead is available in 50 kg and 100 kg versions. A special powder booster is used for launching from a ground-based unit to provide the necessary impulse for the flight.
Electronic equipment and component origin
Research revealed that the onboard equipment is manufactured by PLAZ LLC. These same production facilities are involved in the production of Harpy UAVs, and the markings and layout of the blocks in both weapons are almost identical.
The missile’s navigation system utilizes inertial devices of Chinese origin and a 16-channel Kometa system. Although the total share of foreign electronics in the Filin is consistent with other Russian weapons, experts note an increase in the number of Chinese microchips alongside the use of 35% American components.
At the same time, the engine for the Filin was developed in Russia—this is the R500 model from Reynolds LLC. This unit was previously identified in the designs of Russian air-launched missiles, such as the S-71K Kover and the S-71M Monokhrom.
Photo from the web
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