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Meet the “Bulky Neptune”: Ukraine’s New Missile Variant Signals Longer Reach, Bigger Punch
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Ukraine has showcased a previously unseen version of its domestically developed Neptune cruise missile during a demonstration for NATO member states, Defense Express reported on October 7.
The newly revealed missile, informally dubbed the “Bulky Neptune” by observers, features visible mid-body enlargements that distinguish it from earlier versions. According to Defense Express, these bulges are most likely conformal fuel tanks designed to increase the missile’s operational range.
The missile’s diameter appears consistent with the original R-360 anti-ship version—approximately 38 centimeters—with a total length of about 4.5 meters excluding the booster.
While the base R-360 is rated for a range of up to 280 kilometers and the longer R-360L (“Long Neptune”) is believed to reach 1,000 kilometers, analysts estimate that the “Bulky Neptune” could achieve around 500 kilometers.
Defense Express also noted that the new configuration might alternatively trade fuel capacity for a heavier warhead, increasing destructive power while maintaining a shorter range of roughly 300 kilometers.
For comparison, the standard R-360 carries a 150-kilogram warhead, while the extended-range variant is reported to hold a 260-kilogram payload.
The unveiling took place during a defense industry exhibition attended by representatives from NATO countries, where Ukrainian officials highlighted advances in the country’s missile production capabilities.
According to the outlet, presenting the Neptune family to international partners aims to attract investment into Ukraine’s expanding defense sector.
The Neptune missile program, developed by the state-owned design bureau Luch, has evolved rapidly since entering service in 2020. Its enhanced variants are seen as a critical step toward strengthening Ukraine’s indigenous long-range strike capability, comparable in performance to Western systems such as France’s MdCN cruise missile.
Earlier, the Ukrainian Navy confirmed that Neptune cruise missiles were used in over 50 precision strikes against Russian military and industrial targets throughout 2024, including a September 29 attack on the Elektrodetal plant in Russia’s Bryansk region.
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