British intelligence explains why Russia uses obsolete Kh-22 missiles

Russia continues to use Soviet-made Kh-22 missiles against Ukraine, because Moscow lacks more precise modern missiles, Report informs referring to the British Ministry of Defense.

“Russia is massing fires with its artillery and air capabilities, in an attempt to overwhelm Ukrainian defenses. Since April, Russian medium bombers have likely launched dozens of 1960s era Kh-22 (NATO designation, AS-4 KITCHEN) air-launched, heavy anti-ship missiles against land targets. These 5.5-ton missiles were primarily designed to destroy aircraft carriers using a nuclear warhead. When employed in a ground attack role with a conventional warhead they are highly inaccurate and can therefore cause significant collateral damage and civilian casualties,” the ministry tweeted.

“Russia is likely resorting to such inefficient weapon systems because it is running short of more precise modern missiles, while Ukrainian air defenses still deter its tactical aircraft from conducting strikes across much of the country.”