Cotia

Ch-55

Ch-55, also known as the Kh-55 (Russian: Х-55), is a Soviet/Russian subsonic air-launched cruise missile developed by the Raduga Design Bureau. It was designed to deliver nuclear warheads and is primarily used by the Russian Air Force. The missile has been in service since the early 1980s and has undergone several upgrades and modifications over the years.

Development

The development of the Ch-55 began in the 1970s as part of the Soviet Union's efforts to enhance its strategic bomber capabilities. The missile was intended to be launched from long-range bombers such as the Tupolev Tu-95 and Tupolev Tu-160. The design focused on achieving a long-range capability while maintaining a low radar cross-section to evade enemy defenses.

Design and Specifications

The Ch-55 is characterized by its cylindrical fuselage and folding wings, which deploy after launch. It is powered by a turbofan engine, allowing it to cruise at subsonic speeds. The missile is equipped with an inertial navigation system, which can be supplemented by satellite navigation for improved accuracy.

• Length: 6.04 meters
• Diameter: 0.51 meters
• Wingspan: 3.1 meters (with wings deployed)
• Weight: Approximately 1,500 kg
• Warhead: Nuclear, with a yield of up to 200 kilotons
• Range: Up to 2,500 kilometers

Variants

Several variants of the Ch-55 have been developed to enhance its capabilities and adapt to different mission requirements:

• Kh-55SM: An extended-range version with additional fuel tanks, increasing the range to approximately 3,000 kilometers.
• Kh-555: A conventional warhead variant with improved guidance systems for precision strikes.
• Kh-101/Kh-102: Modernized versions with stealth features and advanced navigation systems, with the Kh-101 carrying a conventional warhead and the Kh-102 carrying a nuclear warhead.

Operational History

The Ch-55 entered service with the Soviet Air Force in the early 1980s and has since been a key component of Russia's strategic bomber force. It has been deployed on various strategic bombers, including the Tupolev Tu-95MS and Tupolev Tu-160. The missile has been used in several military exercises and has been exported to a limited number of countries.

Strategic Importance

The Ch-55 plays a crucial role in Russia's nuclear deterrence strategy, providing a long-range strike capability that can be launched from beyond the reach of enemy air defenses. Its ability to carry nuclear warheads makes it a significant component of Russia's strategic arsenal.

Also see

• Cruise missile
• Tupolev Tu-95
• Tupolev Tu-160
• Nuclear deterrence
• Raduga Design Bureau