Missile R36M / RS-20 (SS-18 Satan)

Development of the R-36 began in 1962, utilizing the framework of the R-16 program. Initial iterations included light, heavy, and orbital configurations, with flight testing conducted between 1962 and 1966. The R-36 entered service in 1966. The subsequent R-36M variant underwent initial flight testing in 1973 and entered service in December 1975. Further modifications resulted in the R-36M2 Voevoda, which reached operational status in August 1988.

The R-36 series consists of liquid-fueled, multi-stage missiles utilizing nitrogen tetroxide and unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine (UDMH). Guidance is provided by an autonomous inertial system. The missile is launched from silos using a cold-launch mortar technique, where a gas generator ejects the missile from its container before the main engine ignites several meters above the surface. This method protects the silo structure and allows for the potential insertion of a new missile container. Silo structures for the R-36M are assessed to withstand pressures exceeding 7,000 psi.

Warhead configurations vary by variant. The original R-36 carried single nuclear warheads. The R-36M and R-36MUTTKh introduced multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRV). Deployed configurations include single warheads of 18 to 25 megatons or MIRV payloads consisting of 8 to 10 warheads with yields between 500 and 800 kilotons. The R-36M2 variant is equipped with 10 MIRVs and carries up to 40 decoys and penetration aids to circumvent ballistic missile defense systems. High-yield versions were also developed for high-altitude detonation to generate electromagnetic pulses.

The system was originally deployed by the Soviet Union. Following the dissolution of the USSR, launchers were located in Russia and Kazakhstan. The launchers in Kazakhstan were dismantled by September 1996. The missile is currently operated by the Russian Strategic Rocket Forces. The inventory has been reduced to comply with arms control agreements, and the RS-28 Sarmat is designated as the replacement for the series.

In addition to its military role, the system has been utilized for space launch operations. The R-36-O served as the basis for the Tsyklon family of launch vehicles, and decommissioned R-36M missiles have been converted into Dnepr launch vehicles for orbital payloads. Notable test incidents include a 1963 launch failure where the missile lost thrust and fell back onto the pad, and a 1965 explosion during propellant loading.