What is Kinzhal Missile?

About Kinzhal Missile:

• The Kh-47M2 Kinzhal (Dagger) is a Russian nuclear capable, hypersonic air-launched ballistic missile system that entered service in December 2017. 
• It was one of six “next generation” weapons unveiled by Russian President Putin during a speech in March 2018.
• Features:
  • It can reach speeds of up to Mach 10 (12,350 km/hr).
  • The high speed of the Kinzhal gives it better target penetration than lighter, slower cruise missiles.
  • It has a reported range of 1,500-2,000 km while carrying a nuclear or conventional payload of 480 kg. 
  • It is designed to be launched from MiG-31 fighter jets at altitudes of about 18 km (59,000 ft).
  • It has been deployed on various aircraft, including the MiG-31K, Tu-160M, Tu-22M3M, and reportedly the Su-34.
  • This missile maneuvers during all stages of its flight to overcome hostile air defense systems.
  • It can reportedly hit both static targets and mobile ones such as aircraft carriers.

Q1: What are ballistic missiles?

Ballistic missiles are powered initially by a rocket or series of rockets in stages, but then follow an unpowered trajectory that arches upwards before descending to reach its intended target. Ballistic missiles can carry either nuclear or conventional warheads.

Source: Russia Unleashes Thermobaric Weapon, Kinzhal Missile; Ukraine Loses 200 Troops, 300 Drones | Putin