Missile SS-X-29 / RS-28 Sarmat

The RS-28 Sarmat is a super-heavy intercontinental ballistic missile developed to replace the aging Soviet-era R-36M ICBMs in Russia's strategic arsenal. First officially unveiled as one of six new strategic weapons by the Russian president on March 1, 2018, the missile's development has been subject to schedule changes. After a period of hardware checks and engine tests, the missile conducted its first full test flight in April 2022. Despite official statements that the system entered operational service, its development has been marked by a series of test failures, including a significant incident in September 2024 that reportedly destroyed a launch silo.

Designated as a "heavy" ICBM, the Sarmat is a three-stage, liquid-fueled missile possessing substantial capabilities. It is designed with an extensive operational range, enabling it to reach targets globally. The system features a Fractional Orbital Bombardment (FOBS) capability, which allows it to approach targets via trajectories over the South Pole, potentially circumventing established northern-facing missile defense systems. The missile has a short boost phase, a feature intended to reduce the window for tracking by space-based infrared sensors, thus complicating interception efforts. The Sarmat is capable of carrying a large payload, including a variety of warhead options. These can range from up to ten heavy or sixteen lighter multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs), or it can be armed with Avangard hypersonic glide vehicles and a suite of countermeasures against anti-ballistic missile systems.

The Sarmat is deployed from hardened, fixed-based silos, intended to become the foundation of Russia's land-based nuclear deterrent. It is operated by the Strategic Rocket Forces and is slated for deployment with specific rocket divisions, replacing the R-36M systems currently in place. The missile was officially reported to have been placed on combat duty in September 2023. This strategic weapon is positioned as Russia's response to the United States' Prompt Global Strike program, aiming to ensure a credible second-strike capability.