image sourced from original article at Russia has test-launched its new Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile and plans to deploy it by the end of the year, according to President Vladimir Putin. He described the missile as the most powerful in the world, claiming its warhead yield surpasses Western equivalents and that it can travel more than 35,000 kilometers to strike targets in the United States or Europe.
Classified as a super heavy missile and known in the West as Satan Two, the Sarmat is designed to penetrate existing and future missile defense systems. Russian military officials said its deployment would significantly strengthen the country’s ground-based strategic nuclear forces and enhance its deterrence capabilities.
Western security analysts have expressed skepticism about some of Moscow’s claims, noting past test failures and questioning whether the missile will substantially alter Russia’s overall nuclear deterrent. The launch comes amid ongoing nuclear tensions following the war in Ukraine and the expiration of the last major arms control treaty between Russia and the United States, with no clear path toward a renewed agreement.
