Ukraine’s combat-proven “Ruta” missile is stepping beyond its roots as a loitering munition, with its latest version ready to show its new muscle as a cruise weapon.
Developed by Dutch firm Destinus, the Block 2 variant can now strike targets over 450 kilometers (155 miles) away while carrying a 250-kilogram (551-pound) warhead.
It uses artificial intelligence to switch between guidance modes as it approaches a target, helping it maintain accuracy even in GPS-denied environments.
As a stealth weapon, the Block 2 features a reshaped fuselage to reduce its radar signature and keep it hidden from enemy systems. New collapsible wings also allow the missile to launch from containerized platforms.
Destinus said the weapon is intended to engage armored vehicles, hardened structures, and ground personnel.
It is also “designed for scalable production” and is compatible with allied launchers and command-and-control systems, the company stated.
Help From Allies
To strengthen the Block 2’s combat capabilities, Destinus said it worked with international partners.
Spanish firm UAV Navigation helped develop the missile’s navigation system, adding electronic warfare-resistant features to keep it operational in heavily contested environments.
California-based Shield AI also integrated its Hivemind tech to boost the missile’s onboard autonomy and decision‑making.
Combat Deployment
The company has not disclosed when the Ruta Block 2 will be ready for operational use.
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that earlier versions of the system have already been used in combat since October 2025.
“Flamingo was used in combat. Ruta was used in combat. We are doing everything so that this year we can conduct more serious trials — not just one, two, or three. We believe that we will succeed,” Zelensky said, as quoted by Kyiv Post.
