Not three, but four versions of the "Neptune" winged rocket: what experts say
The British analyst and the Hi Sutton naval system has suggested that there are four versions of Neptune Missile: Sutton, Neptune-MD (Medium Distance) has an intermediate place between the base and long versions of the missile. However, Defense Express analysts do not agree with such conclusions.
In particular, it was stated that a product that is mistakenly classified as Neptune-MD rocket is in fact a prototype of the R-360 rocket: it appeared at the plant in 2019-2020 and was shown at exhibitions. Experts also clarified that the RK-360L index (or more precisely R-360l) belongs to the version of "Neptune-D" according to the official classification, and not the so-called "Puzatat Neptune".
The fact is that the first differs in the fuselage of variable diameter and the absence of external fuel tanks. The video from the weapons exhibition in Kiev confirms that this option was presented as a "long Neptune". Defense Express estimates that the "long" version of the rocket has changed the proportions of the central part of the fuselage, which became wider - about 0. 5 meters against 0. 38 meters in the base variant. The engine and tail compartment remained unchanged.
Considering the above analysis, it is likely that the family of Ukrainian winged missiles "Neptune" has three modifications: in addition, photos of new Neptune modifications are taken from different angles, which is not yet possible to compare constructive differences. However, according to experts, the ability to compare three versions in a single projection is a matter of time, given the activity of public demonstrations of Ukrainian developments.