The Oreshnik may have been developed based on the Yars missile
The Russian medium-range ballistic missile "Oreshnik" was likely developed based on the second and third stages of the RS-24 "Yars" intercontinental ballistic missile.
This conclusion was reached by analysts from the LUFTLAGE project after analyzing the missile’s design and its debris found on Ukrainian territory.
Researchers note that following its first combat deployment in 2024, the “Oreshnik” remains one of the least studied missile systems of the Russian Federation. The Russian side has yet to release any photographs of the missile itself or its launch system.
Back in 2024, the Pentagon described the “Oreshnik” as an experimental medium-range ballistic missile based on the RS-26 “Rubezh” complex. At the same time, Russian sources previously reported that the “Rubezh” was also developed based on the “Yars” missile.
Analysts cite footage released in 2026 of the system’s deployment in Belarus—which showed support vehicles similar to those used by Yars missile units—as further confirmation of this theory.
After analyzing the debris, experts also identified elements of the booster control system and a pressurized instrument compartment housing navigation and guidance systems.
According to researchers’ estimates, the missile can carry six warheads, each of which is capable of splitting into six submunitions. At the same time, experts note that due to design limitations, the diameter of such submunitions does not exceed 10–13 centimeters.
According to experts from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, the missile’s warheads are solid cast iron projectiles, rather than high-tech kinetic munitions made of steel or tungsten.
Source: LUFTLAGE
Ukraine is ready for dialogue with Russia provided Moscow is genuinely committed to serious talks, but such meetings require careful preparation. Any direct contacts between the leaders of the warring states do not occur spontaneously or via ordinary telephone communication.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that he is ready to hold a summit with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, and the search for an appropriate format is currently underway.
