Russia tests nuclear-capable missile, warns those who 'try to threaten our country'

The Kremin announced on Wednesday that Russia conducted a first test launch of its Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, a new addition to its nuclear arsenal which President Vladimir Putin has said would deter those who “try to threaten our country.”  

A new Reuters report stated that Putin was shown on Russian state-media being told by military officials that the missile was launched from Plesetsk in the country’s northwest and hit targets in the far eastern Kamchatka peninsula.

"The new complex has the highest tactical and technical characteristics and is capable of overcoming all modern means of anti-missile defense. It has no analogues in the world and won't have for a long time to come," Putin said.

"This truly unique weapon will strengthen the combat potential of our armed forces, reliably ensure Russia's security from external threats and provide food for thought for those who, in the heat of frenzied aggressive rhetoric, try to threaten our country."

Although the Sarmat intercontinental missile system has been under development for years, its completion comes at a strategically key time for Moscow as it continues to face down the West over its illegal invasion of Ukraine, The Guardian reported.

According to Douglas Barrie, a senior fellow for military aerospace at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, the launch was an important milestone for Russia after years of funding and design issues delayed the missile’s roll-out.

While the first test was allegedly a success, Barrie added that further testing is required before Russia can deploy the new system and replace the aging SS-18 and SS-19 systems, both of which he believes are “well past their sell-by date.”

Barrie added that the Sarmat system is capable of carrying 10 or more nuclear warheads and provides Russia with the ability to fire missiles over either of the earth’s poles – a reality which presents a strategic challenge to Western militaries and their satellite-based radar and tracking systems.

“This complicates where you’ve got to look,” he noted.