Moscow (TDI): Russia is testing the combat readiness of a unit armed with Yars intercontinental ballistic missiles, according to statements from the defense ministry on Friday.
The Yars missile, capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads, has a range of up to 11,000 kilometers and can be deployed both in silos and on mobile launchers.
This latest test takes place in the Tver region, northwest of Moscow, and involves practicing the movement of Yars missiles over distances of up to 100 kilometers under camouflage, news agencies reported.
The unit will also engage in drills to defend the missiles from air attacks and sabotage groups.
The missile test comes amid a year of intensified nuclear drills by Russia, which, according to security analysts, are intended as signals to dissuade the West from further intervention in the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Also Read: Russian Envoy Slams West Role in Ukraine
The latest test coincides with NATO’s annual nuclear exercises and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s unveiling of his “victory plan.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently lowered the threshold for the use of nuclear weapons, expanding the scenarios under which Moscow could consider their deployment.
This has drawn sharp criticism from Ukraine, which has accused Russia of engaging in nuclear blackmail.
Russia Conducts Drills
In July, Russia conducted two previous rounds of exercises involving Yars missile units, and it has also carried out three drills this year focused on preparations for the launch of tactical nuclear missiles.
Unlike intercontinental missiles, tactical nuclear weapons have a shorter range and smaller yield.
Also Read: Global economic effect of Russia Ukraine Crisis
Despite frequent reminders of Russia’s status as the holder of the world’s largest nuclear arsenal, Putin has consistently stated that Russia does not need to use nuclear weapons to achieve its objectives in Ukraine.
