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Ukraine is set to test the new RUTA missile, with a range of up to 2,000 km: what is known about it

Ukraine is set to test the new RUTA missile, with a range of up to 2,000 km: what is known about it

18 May 2026, 15:51

Ukraine is set to test the new RUTA missile, with a range of up to 2,000 km: what is known about it — RUTA Block 3 rocket

Ukraine will serve as a testing and production site for the new RUTA Block 3 long-range missile. Flight tests are already scheduled for 2027.

This was announced by Destinus in conjunction with its partner Rheinmetall.

What is RUTA Block 3

RUTA Block 3 is a new cruise missile with a range of up to 2,000 km. It is based on the existing architecture of the RUTA family, which has progressed from operational use to series production.

Flight tests are scheduled for 2027.

Production is spread across several countries:

The Netherlands – the main engineering and production centre, where mass production of the RUTA family is already established.
Ukraine – participation in development, operational testing of Block 3 and manufacture of key components.
Germany – the joint venture Rheinmetall Destinus Strike Systems will handle series production, certification and final integration for the Bundeswehr and other customers.

Production of Block 1 and Block 2 is scheduled to begin at the Rheinmetall site in Unterlüsse in 2026–2027, with Block 3 following upon completion of flight testing and certification.

Earlier versions are already in production

RUTA Block 1 is in series production in the Netherlands.

RUTA Block 2 was developed with the support of the Ukrainian Brave1 platform and is currently undergoing flight testing in Ukraine. Scaling up its production is planned for 2026.

The missile will be equipped with a new-generation turbojet engine – an enlarged Destinus T220, which is currently at the design stage. The warhead will weigh 250 kg.

The system will feature autonomous navigation for operation in areas where the GPS signal is jammed, as well as terminal guidance to the target.

The aim of the programme

“The programme aims to transition European long-range strike capabilities from limited stocks to stable industrial production,” the company stated.

All development, production and export activities will be carried out in accordance with applicable national and European legislation, export control regulations and subject to the necessary government approvals.

As a reminder, it was previously reported that Ukraine had developed its first guided aerial bomb. It has already passed the necessary tests and is ready for combat use.

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