The 3M54-1 Kalibr is a Russian anti-ship cruise missile developed by NPO Novator (OKB-8). Known by its NATO reporting name SS-N-27 “Sizzler,” this missile features a two-stage design optimized for precision engagement of naval targets. With advanced guidance systems and a supersonic terminal phase, the 3M54-1 Kalibr is a key asset in Russia’s maritime strike arsenal, capable of outmaneuvering modern air defenses.
Country users : Russia, Algeria India, Vietnam and China
Technical Data
-
Warhead
The 3M54-1 Kalibr carries a 450 kg high-explosive warhead tailored for maximum lethality against surface ships. The warhead is optimized to penetrate ship hulls and detonate within critical areas, causing catastrophic damage to vital systems like propulsion, weapon systems, and command infrastructure. Its explosive composition is designed for delayed detonation to ensure deep penetration before the blast, maximizing damage to heavily armored or reinforced targets. This ensures the missile can incapacitate or destroy even heavily defended warships, including aircraft carriers and destroyers.
-
Design and protection
The 3M54-1 Kalibr features a sleek, cylindrical airframe with a length of 6.2 meters and a diameter of 533 mm, compatible with both vertical launch systems (VLS) and 533 mm torpedo tubes. The missile has a launch weight of approximately 1,570 kg. Its construction relies on advanced lightweight materials, such as aluminum alloys and composites, ensuring durability and aerodynamic efficiency for high-speed and long-range operations.
-
Propulsion, Speed, and Range
The 3M54-1 uses a two-stage propulsion system for versatile performance. At launch, a solid rocket booster propels the missile from its platform, ensuring stable and rapid ascent. In the cruise phase, the missile transitions to a turbojet engine powered by liquid hydrocarbon fuel, enabling sustained flight at subsonic speeds of 0.8–0.9 Mach. The missile’s range is approximately 220–300 kilometers, varying based on its flight profile and payload configuration. During the terminal phase, a secondary propulsion system activates, accelerating the missile to supersonic speeds of up to 2.9 Mach. This final sprint not only enhances the missile’s impact force but also reduces the reaction time available to enemy air defenses, improving the likelihood of a successful strike.
-
Combat Use
The 3M54-1 Kalibr is a versatile weapon deployed from both surface ships and submarines. Platforms equipped with vertical launch systems or 533 mm torpedo tubes can carry the missile, ensuring adaptability across Russia’s naval forces. Its primary mission is to neutralize surface warships, particularly those with advanced air defenses. By combining a stealthy approach with a high-speed terminal phase, the 3M54-1 is designed to penetrate layered defenses and deliver a crippling blow to critical naval assets.
-
Guidance Systems
The 3M54-1 integrates sophisticated guidance technologies to ensure precision targeting. An Inertial Navigation System (INS) provides mid-course guidance, while GLONASS satellite navigation enhances positional accuracy over long distances. In its terminal phase, the missile activates an active radar seeker, allowing it to locate and lock onto moving naval targets. This multi-mode guidance ensures effective engagement of enemy vessels even in electronically contested environments. The missile’s ability to follow low-altitude flight paths further reduces its radar signature, improving survivability.
Close view of the 3M54-1 Kalibr cruise missile.
Photo Gallery
