Summary
Recent reports indicate that Russia’s testing of the RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) has encountered significant failures, resulting in extensive damage at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. Satellite imagery reveals a large crater approximately 200 feet wide at the launch site, suggesting a catastrophic incident during the missile’s test.
The Sarmat missile, also known as Satan II, is a key component of Russia’s nuclear deterrent strategy and is designed to carry multiple warheads over long distances. However, this recent failure marks the fourth unsuccessful test of the Sarmat, raising concerns about the missile’s development amid ongoing pressures from international sanctions and the demands of the war in Ukraine. Analysts suggest that the explosion may have occurred either during the missile’s ignition or potentially during the fueling process, further complicating Russia’s efforts to modernize its nuclear capabilities. The repeated setbacks in testing highlight the challenges faced by the Russian defense industry and may delay the deployment of the Sarmat, which was initially expected to be operational by 2018.
Damage Assessment
- Extent of Damage: Satellite images from Maxar Technologies show extensive damage not previously visible, indicating a serious incident at the launch site.
- Crater Size: The crater at the Plesetsk site is approximately 60 meters (200 feet) wide, suggesting a large explosion.
Implications for Russian Military Strategy
- Testing Failures: The Sarmat’s development has been plagued by delays, with only one successful test reported since its inception.
- Impact on Nuclear Arsenal: The failures could affect the readiness of older missile systems that the Sarmat is intended to replace, potentially prolonging their service life.
Broader Context
The Sarmat missile is seen as a critical element of Russia’s strategic nuclear forces, capable of reaching targets across the globe. The ongoing failures in its testing could undermine Russia’s confidence in its nuclear capabilities at a time when tensions with the West are high due to the conflict in Ukraine.
Satellite photos show failed Russian missile test
Sep. 27 / Usa Today / Maxar Technologies' satellite photos reveal extensive damage from a failed Sarmat test. The article effectively contextualizes the geographical significance of the launch site while emphasizing Kremlin's challenges. “ In satellite imagery released last week, Russia appears to have experienced a setback in testing for its Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile at a...
Images show Russia's new Sarmat missile suffered major test failure, researchers say
Sep. 23 / Gazette / Comprehensive satellite evidence illustrates a catastrophic failure in the Sarmat test, with expert commentary on potential causes. The piece effectively connects military setbacks to broader geopolitical tensions. “ By Mark Trevelyan LONDON (Reuters) -Russia appears to have suffered a "catastrophic failure" in a test of its Sarmat missile, a key weapon in the...
Russian missile failed during test, researchers and imagery indicate
Sep. 23 / Gazette / Recent satellite imagery and expert analysis underscore a significant failure in Russia's Sarmat missile test, highlighting a crater at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. It provides a clear visual of the incident's impact. “ LONDON (Reuters) - A Russian RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile likely failed during a test earlier this month, according to arms experts and...
Russia’s Next-Generation Nuclear Missile Failed a Test, Evidence Suggests
Sep. 23 / The New York Times / Satellite imagery reveals a crater from a failed missile test, reinforcing the narrative of Russia's struggles in missile development. It provides a succinct overview of the Sarmat's capabilities and setbacks. “ Satellite photos showing a 200-foot-wide crater at a launch site indicate that the Sarmat missile, said by the Kremlin to travel at five times the speed of...
Satellite images show Russian setbacks: Arms depots hit by Ukraine and a failed missile test
Sep. 24 / Nbc News / Images of the crater at Plesetsk highlight the Sarmat's failure, emphasizing the missile's strategic importance. It captures the urgency of the situation, linking military challenges to Russia's nuclear deterrence strategy. “ Russia's military is advancing on the battlefield in Ukraine , but at home the Kremlin appears to have suffered a number of fiery setbacks that are captured...
Sep. 23 / Business Insider / An analysis of the Sarmat's failed test highlights significant damage at the launch site, linking it to broader issues in missile development. It effectively contextualizes the challenges faced amid the Ukraine conflict. “ Russia apparently tried — and failed — to test its RS-28 Sarmat ICBM. Satellite imagery captured over the weekend reveals extensive damage at the launch...
Putin's Much-Feared Satan 2 Nuclear Missile Failed 4 Out of 5 Tests
Sep. 23 / Newsweek / The article presents a critical overview of the Sarmat program's repeated failures, framing it within the context of international sanctions. It adeptly discusses the implications for Russia's aging missile systems. “ Russian President has suffered an emabarassing setback as his feared Satan 2 nuclear arsenal failed four out of five missile tests, according to arms experts...
Satellite Images Reveal Russia's Failed Nuclear Missile Test: Report
Sep. 22 / Newsweek / The report delves into the explosion's implications, suggesting it occurred during fueling rather than launch. It raises concerns about the Sarmat program amidst ongoing Ukraine tensions, adding depth to the analysis. “ Satellite imagery has revealed that a recent Russian test of the RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) ended in failure, according to...
Sep. 23 / The Sun / Evidence of a catastrophic failure in the Sarmat test is well-presented, with expert insights on the missile's strategic role. The piece emphasizes the ongoing challenges faced by Russia in its military ambitions. “ A UKRAINIAN marine was electrocuted through his genitals by a Russian torturer known as "Dr Evil". Yuri Hulchuk, 23, was brutalised in a hellhole jail and...