European Crossbow in the style of “Hell”: a missile with a range of up to 800 km and a warhead weighing 300 kg
At the DSEI 2025 exhibition, a new Crossbow cruise missile was presented, featuring standard features similar to the Ukrainian “Hell”.
The European missile concern MBDA debuted the Crossbow cruise missile at the DSEI 2025 exhibition, which is taking place in London. This event came as a surprise even to experts, since the development had not been announced earlier, as reported by Defence Express.
The project was developed in just seven months, and deliveries of new missiles are expected to start as early as the second quarter of 2026. This was made possible by the use of existing military and civilian components, which significantly reduced the time for creation.
The Crossbow design itself looks extremely practical. Compared to other systems, it does not have complex shapes to reduce radar visibility. A significant part of the structure, particularly the turbojet engine, is located above the fuselage, which enables a reduction in production costs. The wings are also simple to make. This approach is reminiscent of the Ukrainian experience in creating the Peklo missile, which was presented in December 2024. However, the coincidence in approaches can only be explained by the same challenges – the need to develop affordable and effective long-range attack means.
The Crossbow missile has higher characteristics compared to its Ukrainian counterparts, in particular due to its larger dimensions. Its length is 5.3 meters, and its wingspan is 3 meters. It is equipped with a 300 kg warhead and is capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 800 km. For comparison, the Ukrainian Palanytsia, which shares similar characteristics with Peklo, has a range of up to 650 km and a vibration of up to 100 kg. Its dimensions are 3.5 meters in length and 1.7 meters in wingspan.
It is also worth noting the method of launching the missile. MBDA did not waste resources on designing complex launchers. The images presented show a simple platform on a Mercedes Zetos chassis. This greatly simplifies the organization of production and improves the possibilities of using the missile on the battlefield.
Overall, the Crossbow appears to be a rational solution for modern military challenges. It combines sufficient power, ease of production, and realistic delivery times. Compared to other experimental projects presented in Europe, this development appears more aligned with the real needs of armies.
On Monday, September 8, Donetsk suffered heavy explosions due to strikes by cruise missiles aimed at a military facility converted by the occupiers from the Topaz plant.
