The deployment of Topol-M intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) in silo launchers (SLs) began back in 1997. In 2026, their gradual removal from combat duty will begin, according to the Telegram channel Military Russia.
The Topol-M group in SLs will be replaced by newer silo-based Yars or even some other derivatives. Moreover, it is not worth waiting for the complete expiration of warranty periods for the secondary use of Topol-M as Start-1M space launch vehicles, the channel's authors noted.
And from 2026, if there are no new programs, the Votkinsk plant will probably reduce the production of Yars-type ICBMs, since all rearmament programs will have already been completed. Approximately from 2026, the removal of Topol-M from duty and the placement of new missiles in their place will begin. And the removed Topol-M will benefit uncrewed cosmonautics.
Topol-M is a single-warhead three-stage solid-propellant strategic missile. The firing range is more than 10,000 km. The exact power of the nuclear warhead is not specified, but according to data from open sources, it is part of the megaton class of nuclear warheads.
The missile's flight is controlled by sustainer engines operating on solid fuel, providing rapid acceleration and reducing the missile's vulnerability in the initial stage of flight.
Earlier www1.ru reported that the characteristics of the ZA-SpN Titan armored vehicle shown at the parade in Moscow have become known.
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