Photo: EPA
Russia plans to deploy its new Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile by the end of the year, President Vladimir Putin said, describing it as the most powerful nuclear weapon of its kind, according to Reuters.
Putin claimed the missile would be capable of penetrating all existing and future missile defense systems. He also stated that its warhead power exceeds that of any Western equivalent by more than four times, with a reported range of over 35,000 km.
The RS-28 Sarmat is designed to deliver nuclear warheads to targets in the United States and across Europe. Its deployment follows years of delays and testing setbacks, including a failed launch in September 2024 that reportedly left a large crater at a silo site.
Western analysts have cautioned that some of the claimed capabilities of Russia’s next-generation nuclear systems may be overstated.
Commander of Russia’s Strategic Rocket Forces Sergey Karakayev said the deployment of Sarmat systems would significantly enhance the combat effectiveness of Russia’s land-based nuclear forces and strengthen strategic deterrence.
Earlier reports by The Telegraph suggested that escalating nuclear rhetoric from Moscow could increase the risk of provocations, including potential “false flag” scenarios.
