Zone 5 Technologies develops ground-launch version of Rusty Dagger missile

Zone 5 Technologies has developed the Block 40 version of the Rusty Dagger small cruise missile, which is capable of being deployed from ground-based launchers. While the manufacturer has not disclosed the specific location or timing of recent launch footage, spokespersons indicated that Rusty Dagger variants have been selected for specific Army and Navy projects, with early development stages also underway for a U.S. Air Force program.

The missile was originally developed for Ukraine under the ERAM program as an air-launched asymmetric response to high-cost weaponry shortages. In August 2025, the U.S. Department of State approved the potential sale of up to 3,350 ERAM missiles to Ukraine, an estimated $825 million deal supported by Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and U.S. Foreign Military Financing.

The Block 40 version can carry warheads weighing between 45kg and 113kg. It retains its original air-launch capabilities via wing pylons or palletized munitions systems, while the new configuration allows for land or sea-based deployment using a booster motor.