A Russian Navy frigate outfitted with next-generation hypersonic cruise missiles has conducted exercises in the English Channel and is currently engaged in operations in the Atlantic Ocean, according to reports from Russian news agencies on Tuesday.

The frigate’s crew, armed with Zircon (Tsirkon) hypersonic anti-ship missiles, carried out counter-terrorism drills, simulating the defense against air and sea drone assaults from a hypothetical adversary, as reported by Russian state media.

The Northern Fleet frigate Admiral Golovko has successfully navigated the English Channel and is now executing missions in designated areas of the Atlantic Ocean, as stated by the Northern Fleet’s press service, according to RIA state news agency.

This marks the first extended deployment of the multipurpose frigate since its induction into the Russian Navy in December 2023, as noted by TASS state news agency. The vessel departed from its primary base in northern Russia on November 2.

Prior to its commissioning, then-Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced that the warship would be equipped with Zircon missiles.

The sea-launched Zircon hypersonic missiles possess a range of 900 km (560 miles) and can travel at multiple times the speed of sound, complicating defensive measures against them.

Following directives from President Vladimir Putin in 2023, Russia commenced large-scale production of Zircon missiles as part of its strategy to enhance its nuclear capabilities.

In addition to the Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle, which became operational in 2019, the Zircon is a key component of Russia’s hypersonic weaponry.

Russia views these weapons as a means to overcome the advancing capabilities of U.S. missile defense systems, which President Putin has cautioned may eventually be capable of intercepting Russian nuclear missiles.