Ukraine has publicly showcased a new surface-to-air missile for the first time at a defense exhibition. The system has been identified by The War Zone as the missile known as “Koral”.
The development has been underway for several years as part of Ukraine’s ground-based air defense systems, with potential additional capabilities that may also support counterintelligence-related missions.
Missile began development before full-scale war
“Koral” was first presented in 2021 by the design bureau KKB Luch as a medium-range air defense missile.
Its initially declared range was 30–50 km, but by around 2023, it was revised upward to approximately 100 km, placing it in the lower tier of long-range air defense systems.
Speed that blurs missile classification boundaries
Previously reported specifications include a mass of around 300 kg, a 25 kg warhead, and a speed of up to 3,600 km/h.
The missile is said to be capable of engaging some ballistic targets, significantly increasing its value in a layered air defense architecture, though not all target classes are confirmed.
Ukrainian engineering meets international defense cooperation
The missile is expected to use the “Onyx” active radar homing seeker developed by Radionix.
The project also involves Spain’s Sener, which works on components for the IRIS-T family within broader air defense cooperation with Ukraine.
According to KKB Luch CEO Oleh Korostelov, the system had already reached an advanced stage of readiness earlier in development.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense had previously identified air defense — including further development of the “Koral” system — as a top priority for 2024, emphasizing the need for mobile SAM systems with ranges above 100 km.
Design evolution and technical changes
In an earlier prototype, small engine units similar in concept to those used in Patriot PAC-3 were reportedly placed near the missile’s nose for terminal-phase precision guidance. These elements were removed in later versions, which also feature redesigned stabilizers with increased surface area.
