Russia declared on Friday that it has initiated the deployment of its nuclear-capable Satan II intercontinental ballistic missiles into active combat service, marking a significant milestone.
The missile, also recognized as Sarmat and dubbed a “superweapon” by Russia, was introduced in 2018, with the original plan to integrate it into combat readiness by the close of 2022.
Yury Borisov, the head of Russia’s space agency Roscosmos, made the announcement during a media event organized by Russia’s Knowledge Society. Borisov confirmed the development, stating, “The Sarmat strategic complex has been put on combat duty,” as reported by the state news service TASS.
Satan II, or Sarmat, will serve as a replacement for the aging Soviet-era Voyevoda intercontinental ballistic missile, commonly known as the NATO-designated SS-18 Satan, which has been part of Russia’s arsenal since 1988.
This formidable missile boasts an estimated range spanning from 6,200 to 11,800 miles, enabling it to deliver a payload of up to 10 tons, carrying 10 to 15 nuclear warheads, simultaneously, to any destination worldwide.
Following a successful test launch of Satan II in the previous year, Russian President Vladimir Putin lauded its superiority, claiming it would compel Russia’s adversaries to think twice before making threats. Putin also emphasized that the missile has the capability to surpass all contemporary anti-missile defense systems.
In response to inquiries about Russia’s “superweapon,” White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, during a conference call with reporters on Friday, refrained from confirming reports regarding the deployment of Satan II missiles into combat duty.
{Matzav.com}
