Russian Missile Systems
Russia possesses a diverse arsenal of missiles, ranging from short-range systems to intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). These systems are integral to Russia's conventional and nuclear strategies. Below is an overview of the main categories and specific types of missiles in its inventory:
1. Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs)
ICBMs form the backbone of Russia’s nuclear deterrence, capable of delivering nuclear warheads across continents.
- RS-24 Yars: A road-mobile and silo-based ICBM with multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs), replacing older Soviet-era systems.
- RS-28 Sarmat ("Satan II"): A heavy ICBM designed for long-range and high payload capacities, capable of carrying advanced warheads including hypersonic glide vehicles.
- Topol-M (SS-27): Mobile and silo-based ICBM with high accuracy and MIRV capability.
2. Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs)
SLBMs are deployed on nuclear-powered submarines (SSBNs) to provide second-strike capability.
- RSM-56 Bulava: A modern SLBM with MIRV capability, deployed on Borei-class submarines.
- R-29RMU2 Sineva: An older system, still operational on Delta IV-class submarines.
3. Hypersonic Missiles
Hypersonic weapons are a priority for Russia, providing high speed, maneuverability, and difficulty for interception.
- Kinzhal (Kh-47M2): An air-launched hypersonic missile capable of reaching speeds up to Mach 10, designed for precision strikes on high-value targets.
- Avangard: A hypersonic glide vehicle mounted on ICBMs like the RS-28 Sarmat, capable of extreme maneuvers and evading missile defenses.
- Tsirkon (Zircon): A ship-launched hypersonic missile for anti-ship and land-attack roles.
4. Cruise Missiles
Russia employs cruise missiles for precision strikes at long ranges.
- Kalibr (3M-54/3M-14): A versatile system used in both land-attack and anti-ship roles, launched from ships, submarines, or aircraft.
- Kh-101/Kh-102: Air-launched cruise missiles, with conventional and nuclear variants, used extensively in Ukraine.
- Iskander-K: A cruise missile variant of the Iskander system, capable of precision strikes at medium ranges.
5. Tactical and Short-Range Missiles
These systems are used for battlefield support and regional conflicts.
- Iskander-M: A short-range ballistic missile with a range of up to 500 km, designed for precision strikes and nuclear delivery.
- Tochka-U: An older tactical ballistic missile, largely replaced by the Iskander.
6. Anti-Ship Missiles
Designed for naval warfare, these missiles target enemy vessels.
- P-800 Oniks (Yakhont): A supersonic missile for anti-ship and land-attack roles.
- P-700 Granit: A heavy, long-range anti-ship missile for use on submarines and surface ships.
7. Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAMs)
These missiles are critical for air defense.
- S-400 Triumf: A long-range air defense system capable of engaging aircraft, drones, and ballistic missiles.
- S-500 Prometey: An advanced air defense system designed to intercept hypersonic missiles and ICBMs.
8. Other Notable Systems
- RS-26 Rubezh: An ICBM with intermediate-range capability, emphasizing precision strikes.
- Kh-32: A supersonic cruise missile for targeting aircraft carriers and other naval assets.
Summary
Russia’s missile arsenal is extensive and varied, reflecting its strategic emphasis on deterrence, power projection, and adaptability in modern warfare. These systems play critical roles in Russia's military operations and geopolitical strategies.
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