Russia deploys Yars missile launchers for nuclear deterrence

The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that autonomous RS-24 Yars missile launchers were deployed from Novosibirsk for maneuvers. According to Defense Romania, which cites Russian sources, these weapons are intended for patrol and preparatory missions in case of conflict.

The deployment of Russian nuclear Yars launchers is part of Russia's nuclear deterrence strategy, as reported. However, sending the systems on patrol routes does not mean that the RS-24 will be put into active combat service.

Now entrusted to the Russian launchers, patrolling is usually a stage that may precede combat use. However, according to Defense Romania and Ukrainian experts reports, Russia's probability of using the Yars complex is zero. Military expert Oleg Zhdanov explained to Focus.ua that the Russian Federation is most likely conducting regular training, checking combat capabilities, or changing combat assignments.

To recall, the RS-24 Yars is a strategic Russian ballistic missile that plays a key role in the Russian Federation's nuclear arsenal. It replaced outdated missiles and brought entirely new capabilities to intercontinental military operations.

The Yars is an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that uses solid fuel propulsion. It can carry up to six MIRV nuclear warheads, each with a yield of up to 300 kilotons. The range of the RS-24 Yars is 6,800 miles, allowing it to reach virtually any place in the world. The missiles are carried by MZKT-79221 vehicles, which can reach speeds of up to 28 mph and cover up to 310 miles in one go.

The RS-24 complex is a significant component of the Russian armed forces, as it is part of their nuclear triad, which includes the capability to launch missiles from land, sea, and air. Only a few countries in the world, including the USA, China, and India, have a complete nuclear triad. This strategy allows Russia to maintain nuclear deterrence capabilities and flexibility in responding to potential threats.