Ukraine has developed and successfully deployed a new long-range cruise missile, the Long Neptune, against Russian targets, Forbes military analyst David Axe reported on March 15.
The Long Neptune is an extended version of Ukraine’s Neptune anti-ship cruise missile, now measuring 5 meters in length.
Neptune Missile Program Evolution
The original Neptune missile, developed by Ukraine’s Luch Design Bureau, made global headlines in 2022 when it sank the Russian Black Sea Fleet flagship, the Moskva.
Axe referenced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who stated on March 15 that he had received reports on Ukraine’s missile program, confirming “significant results.” “The new Ukrainian missile delivered a precise strike. Range—1,000 km,” Zelenskyy said.
Axe suggests that the first successful deployment of the Long Neptune likely occurred on March 14, when an attack targeted an oil refinery in Tuapse, Russia, about 480 km from the front lines.
Strategic Importance of Long Neptune
Axe emphasized that the Long Neptune is a critical weapon for Ukraine, as it reduces Kyiv’s dependence on U.S. and European military aid. He noted that under President Donald Trump, the U.S. became an unreliable ally, while Europe lacks the production capacity to supply Ukraine with enough modern cruise missiles.
Despite Trump pressuring Ukraine toward a ceasefire that would favor Russia, Zelenskyy’s administration is preparing for continued war and strikes deep into Russian territory, Axe concluded.
Neptune Missile Background
The Neptune is a subsonic cruise missile developed by Ukraine’s Luch Design Bureau. Key details include:
- First unveiled at the 2015 Arms and Security exhibition in Kyiv
- Entered service with Ukraine’s Navy in 2021
- Weighs 870 kg and measures 5.05 meters in length
- Designed to target ships up to 9,000 tons
- Effective range: 200+ km
- Capable of engaging both naval and land targets
- Equipped with a Motor Sich MS400 turbofan engine and advanced guidance systems
The Long Neptune is a modified version of the original Neptune, enhanced for long-range strikes against land-based targets deep inside Russian territory.
Source: The New Voice of Ukraine
