Russia Loads New Intercontinental Ballistic Missile into Silo South of Moscow

Defense News - On December 17, the Russian defense ministry announced the successful loading of a new Yars intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into a silo at the Kozelsk base in the Kaluga region, located southwest of Moscow. The 23-meter-long RS-24 (Yars) missile is equipped to carry multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRVs), allowing it to effectively deliver multiple nuclear warheads to distinct targets.

The official statement from the defense ministry highlighted the event at the Kozelsky compound, where the Strategic Missile Forces undertook the loading process of the Yars ICBM into a silo launcher. Accompanying the announcement was a video clip depicting the colossal missile transportation and its subsequent insertion into the silo, set to an intense backdrop of rock music.

Russia presently maintains the world largest arsenal of nuclear weapons, with the United States as its closest competitor. Together, these two nations exercise control over more than 90% of the global nuclear weapons stockpile. According to data from the Federation of American Scientists, Russia possesses approximately 5,889 nuclear warheads, while the United States follows closely with about 5,244. Notably, both nations have approximately 1,670 strategic nuclear warheads deployed in their respective arsenals.

The loading of the Yars ICBM underscores Russia ongoing commitment to bolstering its strategic capabilities, contributing to the geopolitical landscape where nuclear arsenals continue to play a pivotal role. The release of the video with accompanying music serves as a visual testament to the nation advancements in missile technology, capturing the attention of global observers amid the broader context of nuclear arms competition.