Ukraine starts mass production of Palianytsia missile-drone for long-range strikes against Russia.

On December 4, 2024, Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov announced that the Palianytsia missile-drone project has entered mass production. This development coincides with the resumed and scaled-up production of the R-360 Neptune cruise missile, now modified for extended range. These resumed missile productions complement the Palianytsia, offering additional options for long-range strikes against Russian targets.
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The Palianytsia’s range and speed enable it to target up to 20 Russian airfields, including the Savasleyka airbase, approximately 665 kilometers from Ukraine’s border. (Picture source: Ukrainian World Congress)

The Palianytsia, described as either a missile-drone or a jet-powered attack drone, first gained public attention during Ukraine’s Independence Day celebrations on August 24, 2024. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced its successful combat use on that occasion, describing it as a new class of weapon effectively deployed against Russian military targets. The missile-drone, launched from ground platforms and powered by a turbojet engine, reportedly has a range of 500–700 kilometers. Analysts estimate its warhead weighs between 20 and 50 kilograms, with some suggesting a higher payload. Its ability to perform in-flight target corrections distinguishes it from traditional cruise missiles.

The Palianytsia’s production timeline is notable for its speed, taking only 18 months from design to deployment. This rapid development resulted from collaboration between the Ukrainian government and private defense enterprises. Defense Minister Umerov credited private companies for their contributions, highlighting state coordination as a key enabler of mass production. By early October, the Ministry of Strategic Industries had outlined plans to boost production. Later that month, Lithuania committed €10 million in funding to the project, designed to support Ukrainian manufacturers directly, following international funding models.

Cost considerations have been central to the Palianytsia’s development. Its estimated unit cost is below $1 million, significantly less than comparable Western cruise missiles like the Storm Shadow, which can cost upwards of $1.5 million, but more expensive than smaller drones like Russia's Shahed-136, which costs around $50,000. However, the Palianytsia’s range and speed enable it to target up to 20 Russian airfields, including the Savasleyka airbase, approximately 665 kilometers from Ukraine’s border.

Ukraine’s missile development program also includes enhancements to the R-360 Neptune cruise missile. Originally designed for coastal defense, the Neptune has been adapted for longer-range operations. Its production complements the Palianytsia, expanding Ukraine's arsenal for long-range strikes.

Analysts have examined the Palianytsia’s role within Ukraine’s military strategy. While classified as a hybrid of a missile and drone, its designation remains debated. Some experts view it as a lightweight cruise missile, while others describe it as a one-way attack drone. Key features include its turbojet engine and GPS navigation, blending existing technologies. Its capability to launch from ground platforms adds operational flexibility.

Operational deployment of the Palianytsia has already demonstrated its strategic potential. Its use in August 2024 reportedly targeted an ammunition depot, although specific details remain scarce. Analysts believe its ability to penetrate deep into enemy territory makes it valuable for striking high-value infrastructure, airfields, and other critical assets.

Ukraine’s focus on developing the Palianytsia and similar systems stems from limitations on Western-supplied long-range weapons. These restrictions have driven an emphasis on domestic production to meet strategic demands. Plans for 2025 include the production of up to 3,000 cruise missiles, leveraging collaboration between state and private sectors.

The Palianytsia missile-drone, alongside the modified Neptune missiles, forms part of Ukraine’s strategy to enhance its military capabilities. By scaling domestic production and integrating international support, Ukraine aims to counter evolving threats and sustain effective operations amid the ongoing conflict.