Introduction

Tensions are escalating and risk heightened after Ukraine fired ACTAMS and Storm missile in Kursk region.

Russia has been reviewing the situation due to global pressure does not want a nuclear war. But Russia needs to protect its nation and sovereignty.

Facts

Russian Armed Forces might be preparing to launch an RS-26 “Rubezh” intercontinental ballistic missile from the Kapustin Yar test range in Russia’s Astrakhan region. This potential launch has raised significant concerns due to the missile’s capabilities and the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

What is RS-26 System

The RS-26 “Rubezh” is a mobile ground-based strategic missile system that falls into the category of intermediate-range ballistic missiles. It is designed to carry multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs) and has a range of up to 6,000 kilometers. The missile can carry a warhead payload of up to 1,200 kilograms, which could include nuclear warheads. The RS-26 was developed as a modernization of earlier systems like the RS-24 “Yars” and is intended to bypass advanced missile defense systems.

R-26 system is controversial

This missile system has been controversial due to its alleged violation of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, which was in effect until its collapse in 2019. The treaty had prohibited missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,000 kilometers. Although the RS-26 program was reportedly shelved in favor of other projects like the Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle, recent developments suggest that Russia may have advanced its development and deployment capabilities covertly.

Conclusion

The potential launch of the RS-26 has been linked to recent tensions and military actions in the region. Ukrainian media and Western embassies have raised alarms about possible escalation, with some embassies temporarily closing due to security concerns. Analysts speculate that this could be part of Russia’s strategy to exert psychological pressure on Ukraine and its Western allies, especially following Ukraine’s successful use of American ATACMS missiles against Russian military facilities