Dutch defense company Destinus, founded by former Russian space entrepreneur Mikhail Kokorich, unveiled plans on May 18 to begin production of its Ruta Block 3 mini-cruise missile. This system offers a 1,242-mile range, surpassing the U.S. Tomahawk, and aims to provide Europe and Ukraine with a cheaper, mass-produced long-range strike capability.
Kokorich, who renounced his Russian citizenship in January 2024, pivoted Destinus to defense after Russia's full-scale invasion, supplying thousands of drones and Ruta Block 1 mini-cruise missiles. The company seeks to overcome Europe's reliance on expensive, limited Western missiles by developing systems "10 times cheaper" and rapidly scalable. Russia labeled Destinus a military target in April, highlighting its growing role in bolstering Ukraine's long-range strike capabilities and Europe's defense-industrial base. Destinus is also developing the Ruta Block 2 with Germany's Rheinmetall and has secured significant funding, including nearly $464 million. Ukraine aims to produce over seven million drones this year and seeks advanced U.S. military drone agreements.
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