The authors point out that the successful Russian missile attack called into question the old arguments about the invulnerability of the Patriot.
“The Kinzhal’s capabilities have positive significance not only for Russia, but also for North Korea, which has ramped up production of missiles with similar capabilities since 2019,” the analysts say.
According to experts, Dagger’s neutralization of Patriot systems indicates that North Korean missiles could well do the same against US THAAD and other systems deployed in South Korea and Japan.
“Therefore, the success of the Kinzhal system…are promising signs for North Korea that its developments may have vital asymmetric value in deterring and, if possible, countering a US-led offensive,” the authors conclude. .
On May 16, a Kinzhal hypersonic missile completely destroyed a radar station and five Patriot launchers in kyiv. It is noted that the American air defense system lost all 32 missiles when trying to shoot down the “Dagger”.
