Overview
- The Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, which Russia test-launched Tuesday, completed its mission in a successful flight according to the Strategic Missile Forces.
- The Kremlin said it notified the United States in advance in the first such Russian test since the New START treaty expired in February.
- Military leaders said the first regiment will start fielding Sarmat before the end of 2026 after earlier dates slipped following failed trials.
- Russia touts a payload near 10 tons, very long range and routes meant to evade missile defenses, while independent experts say the system likely will not change the nuclear balance.
- Reports detail repeated past problems, including a 2024 launch-site explosion at Plesetsk and the recent detention of a Krasmash executive tied to the missile’s production.