Russia-Belarus “Zapad-2025” Drills Showcase Hypersonic Power Amid NATO Tensions

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): During large-scale defense drills, Russia successfully test-fired its hypersonic cruise missile Zircon (3M22 Tsirkon), once again showcasing its advanced military strength to the world. The Zircon missile travels at nine times the speed of sound, making it almost impossible to intercept. Experts suggest it has the capability to change the course of any conflict and even redraw strategic maps.

On Sunday, the Russian Defense Ministry announced that the Admiral Gorshkov-class frigate “Admiral Golovko” launched the Zircon missile in the Barents Sea, striking its target with precision. Released footage showed the missile being launched vertically before accelerating toward the horizon at an angle. Real-time surveillance confirmed that the target was destroyed in a direct hit.

The ministry added that the Northern Fleet’s long-range anti-submarine aircraft and Su-34 supersonic fighter-bombers also took part in the joint military exercises with Belarus. Su-34 crews practiced bombing ground targets, while mixed aviation corps units carried out anti-submarine operations.

The missile test was part of the “Zapad-2025” (West-2025) joint strategic drills between Russia and Belarus, which began on September 12. The exercises are aimed at enhancing military command and coordination in the event of an attack on either country.

Moscow and Minsk emphasized that the drills are purely defensive, denying any intention to threaten NATO members. However, tensions remain high as NATO launched its “Eastern Sentry” operation in Poland on September 9-10, following reports of Russian drone intrusions into Polish airspace.