Russia attacked Ukraine with an intercontinental ballistic missile – Zelenskyy
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says that Russian troops attacked Ukraine in the morning with a new missile that is consistent with intercontinental ballistic missiles. This may be the first combat use of this type of weapon.
Source: news.liga.net
“Russia is so afraid that it is already using new missiles. And it is looking around the world for other places to find weapons: either in Iran or in North Korea. Today there was a new Russian missile. It has all the characteristics – speed, altitude – of an intercontinental ballistic missile. We are currently conducting examinations,” Zelenskyy said.
Details of the attack
The Ukrainian Air Force reported that the attack on Dnipro was carried out by various types of missiles, including a possible launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from the Astrakhan region of the Russian Federation. The main purpose of this weapon is to deliver nuclear charges, although it can also be used with a conventional warhead.
According to open sources, the RS-26 Rubizh missile can:
- Reach targets at a distance of up to 6000 km.
- Fly to Kyiv from Astrakhan in 8-10 minutes.
- Carry a warhead weighing 1.2 tons.
A feature of the RS-26 is the presence of four separable warheads, which makes it resistant to missile defense systems.
Development of the RS-26 “Rubezh”
The missile project began in Russia about 18 years ago in violation of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (1987). The first test launch took place in 2011. Although the missile was supposed to enter service in 2015, in 2018 it was excluded from the state arms program until 2027.
The ICBM was developed by the Moscow Institute of Heat Engineering. It is believed that Russia has the capability to quickly resume production of this type of missile.
Western assessment
An anonymous Western official in an interview with ABC News said that the attack on the Dnipro was probably not carried out by an intercontinental ballistic missile.
Nevertheless, most of Russia’s long-range missiles, including the Iskander, Kinzhal, and X-55 cruise missiles, can be equipped with nuclear warheads.
Conclusion.
This attack is another confirmation of Russia’s escalation and use of new weapons. Ukrainian experts continue to analyze the circumstances of the missile’s use, while the international community condemns its use against civilians.
