A recent map from Newsweek illustrates the reach of nuclear-capable hypersonic missiles reportedly aboard a Russian frigate that has been deployed near Germany’s coast. The deployment follows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s warning of a potential retaliatory strike against British and EU vessels.
The frigate, Admiral Kasatonov, was seen off the coast of Fehmarn Island, a popular tourist spot, according to The Daily Telegraph, which cited shipping data. The ship is equipped with Zircon hypersonic missiles, known for their high velocity, making them difficult for air defense systems to counter.
Moscow has previously employed Zircon missiles to target sites in Ukraine during the ongoing conflict. According to reports, Admiral Kasatonov possibly had its location tracker disabled, and its current presence near Fehmarn was uncertain as of Tuesday. German newspaper Kieler Nachrichten reported the vessel entering the Baltic Sea following the arrival of the destroyer Admiral Levchenko in the area.
The Admiral Kasatonov is a modern component of Russia’s Northern Fleet, built in 2020. Capable of executing long-range strikes and effective in anti-submarine warfare, it represents advanced Russian naval power. Russian state media have shown President Putin visiting the ship in Severodvinsk’s Arctic port in December 2023.
Newsweek’s map indicates the Zircon missiles on the ship possess a range of up to 660 miles. This range threatens NATO members, including Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and Poland.
The frigate’s movements highlight escalating tensions between Russia and NATO. The Wall Street Journal reported a U.S. intelligence warning of potential Russian aggression to assess NATO’s resolve, including possible attacks on Poland or Baltic nations. Such actions might involve cyberattacks or limited incursions, challenging NATO’s Article 5 commitment to mutual defense.
Putin Threatens UK and EU Vessels
During Pacific Fleet drills, President Putin cautioned about retaliating against British and EU ships trying to seize Russia-associated vessels, known as the “shadow fleet.” These vessels navigate around oil sanctions resulting from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Putin condemned the acts as piracy and robbery and warned of reciprocal actions.
Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s Security Council Deputy Chairman, stated that Russia reserves the right to target any merchant ship belonging to adversarial nations.