US says Russia had ‘foreshadowing’ about Sarmat . ballistic missile test

Russia tests intercontinental ballistic missile Sarmat – Photo: Russian Defense Ministry

According to News Agency Sputnik Russia’s intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) named Sarmat was developed to replace the ICBM R-36M2 (named by NATO as SS-18 Satan). The Sarmat is expected to be effective in destroying enemy strategic targets around the globe with kinetic impact and without the use of nuclear warheads.

On April 20, the Russian Defense Ministry said that the missile was launched from the Plesetsk cosmodrome and targeted at the Kamchatka peninsula.

“Sarmat is the most powerful missile with the longest range in the world. It significantly enhances the combat power of Russia’s strategic nuclear forces,” the Russian Defense Ministry said. The agency said the rocket completed “as expected” at all stages of flight.

The Russian Defense Ministry said that the Sarmat missile has been upgraded, increasing the number of warheads it can carry, as well as supporting new weapons such as hypersonic missiles.

Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated the Russian armed forces with the successful launch of the Sarmat missile. He noted that the new ICBM will ensure Russia’s safety and will make Russian threats “think again”.

“This truly unique weapon will increase the combat potential of the armed forces and ensure the safety of Russia from external threats,” Putin said.

According to Putin, the missile is built using parts and components made in Russia, which will accelerate its mass production. Today’s test launch was the first of a series of tests. Once completed, the Sarmat missile will be put into production.

The US side also had an early response after strong statements from Russia. John Kirby, a spokesman for the US Department of Defense, said that Russia’s test of an intercontinental ballistic missile was “routine” and “not a threat”.

The specifications of the Sarmat missile are not entirely clear, but it is expected to carry 10-15 warheads capable of destroying strategic targets, even without the use of nuclear explosives.

In 2018, President Putin confirmed that the Avangard hypersonic missile had been developed as an optional warhead for the Sarmat ICBM. Avangard is said to be capable of penetrating existing air defense systems.