Russia prioritizes RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental missile deployment as a key nuclear modernization step.

As reported by TASS on November 27, 2024, Russia is progressing with the deployment of its RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), designed to be a cornerstone of its modernized nuclear arsenal. Known in the West as "Satan II," this missile is intended to replace the Soviet-era R-36M. With a range of 18,000 kilometers and the capability to carry multiple independently targetable warheads, the Sarmat is positioned to enhance Russia’s strategic deterrence. Although declared operational in 2023, its development has been hampered by delays, testing failures, and production challenges.
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The RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) achieved its first successful test in April 2022, but four subsequent failures, including a September 2024 incident that destroyed a launch silo, have raised concerns. (Picture source: Russian MoD)

Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently ordered the RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), known as "Satan II," to be placed on combat duty, following Russia's reported use of an Oreshnik ICBM in striking the Ukrainian city of Dnipro, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. Moscow has also issued warnings of retaliation against Western nations supplying Ukraine with advanced weaponry, further heightening tensions, as these developments align with Russia’s revised nuclear doctrine, which permits the use of nuclear weapons in response to significant threats, including conventional attacks that jeopardize Russia’s sovereignty, an implicit threat to countries supplying long-range missiles to Ukraine.

This doctrine also emphasizes deterrence against nations hosting military assets perceived as a threat to Russia. However, while official statements assert the Sarmat’s operational readiness, technical challenges, and recent testing failures cast doubt on its immediate deployment. Nevertheless, as production and infrastructure upgrades continue, we could assume that the RS-28 Sarmat remains a central element of Russia's strategy to modernize its nuclear arsenal.

The Sarmat’s first successful test occurred in April 2022 at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. Since then, however, four subsequent tests have reportedly failed, including the most recent in September 2024, which caused severe damage to a launch silo. Satellite imagery revealed a 62-meter-wide crater at the test site. Analysts suggest the failure likely happened during the missile's ignition or early launch phase. These setbacks have raised questions about the missile’s readiness and reliability, though Russia maintains it remains a critical asset for its Strategic Missile Forces.

The RS-28 Sarmat is a three-stage, liquid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of delivering up to 10 tons of payload, including 16 warheads or a combination of warheads and countermeasures designed to overcome missile defenses. The missile incorporates advanced technologies such as the Fractional Orbital Bombardment System (FOBS), enabling it to take unconventional flight paths, like over the South Pole, to evade missile defense systems. It is also compatible with Avangard hypersonic glide vehicles, which are designed to maneuver unpredictably during reentry, complicating interception efforts.

Despite its advanced design, the Sarmat’s development has encountered significant logistical and production challenges. Labor shortages at key facilities, such as Proton-PM, have contributed to delays. Additionally, Russia’s continued reliance on older SS-18 missiles highlights the urgency for the Strategic Missile Forces to ensure readiness during the transition to the Sarmat system.

Russian officials have emphasized ongoing work to integrate the Sarmat into operational units. Colonel General Sergey Karakayev, commander of the Strategic Missile Forces, reported that 88% of the forces’ inventory now consists of modern missile systems, including Yars and Avangard complexes. He also noted progress in modernizing silo launchers and upgrading infrastructure. Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu highlighted ongoing serial production at the Krasnoyarsk Machine-Building Plant, which has expanded its facilities and workforce to support the program, one of the key elements of Russia's ongoing modernization of its nuclear arsenal.