Missile RSM-56 Bulava (SS-N-32)

Development of the RSM-56 Bulava began in the late 1990s to replace the R-39 Rif solid-fuel submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM). This followed the cancellation of the R-39UTTH Bark development program in 1998 after three test failures. Although intended to utilize engineering solutions from the land-based RT-2PM2 Topol-M ICBM, the missile was designed from scratch. The flight test program experienced multiple failures, particularly prior to 2009, which were attributed to manufacturing defects, substandard components, and quality control issues. Following a program review and subsequent test launches, the system was accepted for service, officially entering service in May 2024.

The RSM-56 Bulava is a three-stage ballistic missile. The first and second stages utilize solid-fuel propellant, while the third stage uses liquid fuel to facilitate maneuverability during warhead separation. The missile features a low flight trajectory, giving it quasi-ballistic characteristics, and is capable of maneuvering during its boost phase to evade missile defense systems. It is designed to be launched from an inclined position, enabling submarines to fire while in motion. In addition to submarine deployment, the missile can be adapted for road-mobile transporter-erector-launcher (TEL) systems, railway trains, and other launch platforms. It carries multiple warheads with configurations and circular error probable (CEP) comparable to the Topol-M.

The Russian Navy is the sole operator of the Bulava. The missile is deployed on Project 955 and Project 955A Borei-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, including Yury Dolgorukiy, Alexander Nevsky, Vladimir Monomakh, Knyaz Vladimir, Knyaz Oleg, Generalissimus Suvorov, Imperator Aleksandr III, and Knyaz Pozharskiy. The Typhoon-class submarine Dmitry Donskoy was also modified to serve as a test platform during the development phase. There are no recorded instances of combat use. Incidents during testing include a December 2009 failure caused by a defective engine nozzle, which generated an atmospheric light phenomenon known as the Norwegian spiral anomaly over northern Norway. In November 2015, a dual-missile launch from the submerged Vladimir Monomakh resulted in one missile self-destructing during the boost phase and the second failing to deliver its payload due to manufacturing defects.