Russia Test-Fires New Nuclear-Capable Sarmat ICBM

Russia test-fired a new intercontinental ballistic missile on Tuesday as part of its program to modernize the country's nuclear forces. President Vladimir Putin hailed the launch of the Sarmat missile, which the Russian leader said would enter combat service at the end of the year.

The Sarmat is designed to replace the ageing Soviet-built Voyevoda system. Putin declared it "the most powerful missile in the world," adding that the combined power of its individually targeted warheads is more than four times higher than that of any Western counterpart, according to @SCMPNews.

The test launch occurred days after Putin stated that the fighting in Ukraine is nearing an end. The Russian leader made that assessment following a military parade in Moscow on Saturday that commemorated the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

Since coming to power in 2000, Putin has overseen efforts to upgrade the Soviet-built components of Russia's nuclear triad. These include deploying hundreds of new land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles, commissioning new nuclear submarines and modernising nuclear-capable bombers. The last remaining nuclear arms pact between Russia and the U.S. expired in February.

“This is the most powerful missile in the world.”

Russia has repeatedly highlighted its nuclear capabilities since sending troops into Ukraine in February 2022. Officials have used such statements in an effort to deter the West from increasing support for Ukraine.