Russia conducted the first successful launch of the Sarmat super-heavy intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) (NATO reporting name: SS-X-29) from the Plesetsk spaceport, the Russian Defence Ministry has reported.
"Sarmat is the most powerful missile with the biggest hitting range in the world. It will significantly strengthen the combat power of the Russian strategic nuclear armed forces," the Russian Defence Ministry said.
The missile performed as expected throughout all stages of its flight, the ministry added. The Defence Ministry said that the Sarmat ICBM has received an upgrade, increasing the number of warheads it can carry, as well as support for new types of warheads, such as hypersonic gliders.
Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated the Russian armed forces with the successful launch of Sarmat. He noted that the new ICBM will ensure Russia's safety and will make those threatening it "think twice".
"This truly unique weapon will strengthen the combat potential of armed forces and will secure Russia against external threats," Putin said.
The president stressed that the missile is built using elements and components manufactured in Russia, which will speed up its mass production. Today's launch is the first in a series of test trials. After they are complete, the Sarmat will enter production.
Russia properly notified the United States of its intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test launch, and Washington does not deem it a threat to its security, Politico reported on Wednesday, citing Pentagon spokesman John Kirby.
"Russia properly notified the US under its New Start treaty obligations that it planned to test this ICBM," Kirby said.
The specifications of the Sarmat missile are not entirely clear, but it is expected to carry between 10 and 15 warheads capable of destroying strategic objects, even without the use of nuclear explosives. In 2018, President Putin confirmed that a hypersonic glider, Avangard, had been developed as an optional warhead for the Sarmat ICBM. Travelling at speeds above Mach 10, Avangard is believed to be capable of penetrating existing air defences.
Let's stay in touch no matter what! Follow our Telegram channel to get all the latest news: https://t.me/sputniknewsus