In an article by Paul Wood published on the British site 'iPaper', it is discussed how advanced missile technology, specifically hypersonic missiles, is an essential card that Russian President Vladimir Putin is leveraging in his current standoff with the West. These missiles can exceed five times the speed of sound and pose a significant threat, not only due to their incredible speed but also because of their exceptional maneuverability during flight, making interceptions by conventional defense systems exceedingly challenging.

Wood explains that these hypersonic missiles utilize an unpredictable gliding technology through the upper atmosphere, contrasting with ballistic missiles that follow a predictable arched trajectory. The technical complexity of hypersonic missiles reduces the decision-making window for political and military leaders within NATO to mere seconds, which could dramatically shift the balance of power or what is referred to as the "balance of terror" in favor of Moscow.

Observers cited in the article suggest that the deployment of these weapons forms part of a psychological warfare campaign aimed at intimidating NATO countries and undermining their cohesion. Such a strategy highlights the strategic implications of hypersonic missile technology in contemporary military confrontations and raises concerns about escalating tensions between Russia and the West.