The Developer Of The Russian Hypersonic Missile "Zirkon" Died

• 5.04.2026, 17:16

Alexander Leonov passed away at the age of 74.

Director General, General Designer of NPO Mashinostroyenia Alexander Leonov has died at the age of 74. This was reported by TASS with reference to a source in the designer's entourage, the information was confirmed to Interfax by the company's press service.

Alexander Leonov graduated from the S. Ordzhonikidze MAI with a specialization in "Aircraft" in 1975, the same year he joined NPO Mashinostroyenia. Under the leadership and direct participation of Mr. Leonov, the hypersonic anti-ship cruise missile "Zirkon" was developed, as well as combat equipment for intercontinental ballistic missiles "Avangard", TASS notes. Alexander Leonov is a doctor of technical sciences, professor, head of the department of Bauman Moscow State Technical University. He has been awarded state honors.

NPO Machine Building is one of the leading enterprises of the rocket and space industry of Russia. In particular, it is engaged in the development and production of radar satellites for remote sensing of the Earth of the Kondor family.