Ruta Missile Block 2: What Changed From Block 1, According to Destinus

The European company Destinus has shown the second generation of its Ruta cruise missile, the previous version of which is used by Ukraine to strike Russian targets.

Militarnyi spoke with the developer about the new version of the Ruta missile.

Compared to earlier public descriptions, Ruta Block 2 reflects a clear architectural evolution of the platform.

The key changes include a transition to canisterized launch, which requires a folding wing configuration and an in-line solid rocket booster.

This approach improves protection of the effector during storage and deployment and simplifies integration across different launch systems, including land-based and naval platforms.

Block 2 also focuses on performance scaling through aerodynamic and structural optimization rather than the introduction of fundamentally new subsystems.

“Ruta Block 2 is currently in the testing and validation phase, with serial production readiness planned following completion of this phase and customer-specific qualification.”

“Regarding Block 1, as well as any operational use or deployment of specific configurations, we do not publicly disclose details related to operational employment, end users, or timelines,” the company stated.

Analysis of the changes

First of all, the aerodynamic design has changed: the rocket fuselage has become box-shaped, whereas in the first version of Ruta Block 1 it had a classic cylindrical shape.

Like its predecessor, Block 2 is designed as a high-wing aircraft with a rectangular wing, but the design of the folding wing has been revised.

While Block 1 had an external deployment mechanism, the new version has it integrated directly into the fuselage.

The tail section underwent minimal changes and retained its classic configuration: a keel and two stabilizers. At the same time, the engine exhaust is now located in a trapezoidal casing.

Although the new hull shape is somewhat reminiscent of a low-radar-visibility design, it should be understood that this is not a stealth missile.

The box-shaped design has a number of practical advantages — it is cheaper to manufacture and scale, easier to transport, and simplifies modular replacement of components.

According to the company, the missile is capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 420 km and carrying a warhead weighing up to 250 kg.

For comparison, according to some data, Ruta Block 1 can fly a distance of about 300 kilometers (according to some data, 500) and has a warhead weighing approximately 100 kilograms.