Russia wants to equip its submarine fleet with new intercontinental ballistic missiles. (Archive photo) © Lev Fedoseyev/Imago
Russia continues to rearm: The Putin regime is reportedly working on new nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles. They should be able to overcome all missile defense systems.
Moscow – Russia wants to strategically realign its navy and is therefore working on the development of a new submarine-launched intercontinental ballistic missile. It should be able to overcome all advanced missile defense systems "of any enemy" while providing high precision and greater flight range, the Russian daily Izvestia reported, citing the Russian Defense Ministry.
The intercontinental range missile is designed to replace the Bulava missile, which was developed in the 90s and produced from 2007. In addition, it can be equipped with nuclear warheads and have improved accuracy and become the main armament of the new strategic submarines.
Russia is developing submarine-launched missiles as part of a strategic realignment
However, Russia will be dependent on the old Bulava missiles for even longer: the development of the new missile is still at a very early stage. After approval and coordination with customers, developers are now starting work on the rocket, according to Izvestia from the Russian Defense Ministry. A use in the Ukraine war is therefore excluded.
In any case, the submarine-launched intercontinental ballistic missile is part of a strategic realignment announced by President Vladimir Putin back in 2017. It provides for improved capabilities and a greater strategic and operational role for the Russian Navy.
"Attacks on vital facilities": what goal Russia is pursuing with new anti-submarine missiles
With the development of "high-precision weapons", the Navy is facing a new goal, Izvestia reports, citing sources in the Russian Defense Ministry. They are to be used to "destroy the military and economic potential of the enemy by attacking its vital facilities".
The Bulava missile, as the predecessor of the planned intercontinental ballistic missile, represents a core component of Russia's future strategic nuclear forces, the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank specializing in foreign policy, told Newsweek. Bulawa missiles were specially designed for use on the Borey-class nuclear-powered submarines, which could carry up to 16 missiles. In November 2022, Russia had only tested one submarine.
Submarine-launched missiles with nuclear warheads as part of Russia's strategic deterrence
For Russia, submarine-launched ballistic missiles equipped with nuclear warheads are a core element of strategic deterrence. Since the sinking of the "Kursk" in 2000, Russia has been working on the modernization of the submarine fleet. Before the end of 2023, two new nuclear submarines are expected to strengthen Russia's fleet.
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In addition to Russia, the United States, France, Great Britain and India also have submarine-launched ballistic missiles. North Korea has repeatedly caused criticism with tests. (ms
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