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The first official video of the new variant of the “Long Neptune” cruise missile has appeared online. This version differs from the base R-360 “Neptune” model with larger dimensions and updated structural components. The missile is reportedly showcased alongside other Ukrainian weapons in a video released on the official Instagram account of the state portal “Zbroya.”
In the released footage, the missile is shown at full scale, allowing comparison with the standard anti-ship version. The main visual difference is its increased size – both diameter and length are larger than those of the R-360 “Neptune.” This is explained by expanded fuel tanks and, likely, a heavier warhead. As a result, the missile carries significantly more fuel, extending its range to approximately 1,000 km at cruising speed.
The missile’s nose section has also been redesigned. Experts suggest that this modification is directly linked to upgrades in the warhead and the guidance system. Previously, a Ukrainian defense official, speaking anonymously to The War Zone, stated that the “Long Neptune” has been equipped with a new guidance and control system: during the cruise phase, the missile navigates using a modern satellite positioning system, while in the terminal phase it relies on an infrared homing system.
It has also been reported that the new variant can be launched from the same platforms as the standard R-360 “Neptune” anti-ship missile. This allows for rapid integration into the existing infrastructure of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
An additional change is the enlarged control surfaces, which help offset the increased weight and improve maneuverability. The wings and tail surfaces have likely been expanded as well. However, the overall design remains largely unchanged, indicating the developers’ focus on a rapid and efficient upgrade rather than creating an entirely new missile.
Earlier this spring, it was reported that Ukraine’s defense industry had extended the range of the “Neptune” missile to 1,000 km. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy commented on the development, stating: “Today we received reports on our missile program. We have significant results. A new Ukrainian missile, precision strike. Distance – one thousand kilometers. Thanks to our Ukrainian developers, manufacturers, and military.” At the same time, it was revealed that the “Long Neptune” had already undergone testing and had been successfully used in operational conditions.
As a reminder, we recently reported that Chinese spies attempted to illegally remove classified documents related to the “Neptune” missile system from Ukraine. Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) operatives quickly intercepted one suspect – a man caught while receiving the sensitive materials. His father was later also detained, as he had been involved in passing the classified information to Chinese intelligence services.
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