Russia closes airspace over training ground linked to Oreshnik missile launches
Photo: Russia closes airspace over Kapustin Yar (Getty Images)
Russia is closing the airspace over the Kapustin Yar missile test range. The restrictions may indicate preparations for ballistic missile launches, according to a relevant NOTAM received by the US Federal Aviation Administration.
The flight ban will be in effect on May 12 and 13 from 06:00 to 16:00 local time.
The notice states that the closure extends from ground level to unlimited altitude, which is a typical sign of missile tests or launches.
All aircraft have been banned from entering the area during the specified period.
This is not the first time that the closure of airspace over the test range has coincided with increased activity by Russian military forces.
Similar notices were issued in December — on December 11–13 and 16–21.
On December 13, Russia carried out a large-scale missile strike on Ukraine, using various types of missiles, including ballistic, cruise, and hypersonic.
What is known about the Oreshnik missile
The medium-range ballistic missile Oreshnik is classified as a ground-to-ground weapon and, according to available information, can carry either a nuclear or a conventional warhead.
Its exact technical specifications remain classified. Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has claimed the missile can reach speeds of up to Mach 10, which equals approximately 2.5 to 3 km/s. Its estimated range is up to 5,500 kilometers.
According to assessments by the Ukrainian military, Oreshnik reaches speeds of over 3.5 km/s and carries six warheads, each equipped with submunitions. This configuration makes it more difficult to intercept, even with modern missile defense systems.
US warning
Military expert Ivan Stupak has recommended monitoring the official website of the US Embassy in Ukraine.
He recalled that during the previous instance when Russia was preparing to use the Oreshnik, the US side issued a warning 72 hours in advance, stating that there was an increased threat to US citizens in Ukraine. As a result, all American companies sent their personnel home.
Additionally, the US Embassy in Kyiv reported receiving “specific information” about a possible major air attack on Ukraine.
