Russia Prepares S-500 and Sarmat Nuclear Missile for Combat Duty

Remember, the Cold War may have ended, but the echoes of its icy grip still linger. The specter of nuclear war, once relegated to dusty history books, now resurfaces with the unveiling of Russia’s 2024 military agenda. The frigid air of January 26th, 2024 was pierced by a chilling announcement from a senior official in Moscow. Deputy Defense Minister Alexei Kriukov announced the operational readiness of the RS-28 Sarmat strategic missile system within the Strategic Missile Forces, coupled with the inclusion of Tu-160M strategic missile carriers and the S-500 anti-aircraft missile system into the Aerospace Forces. According to the Minister, we can expect the final touches to be made in 2024, with an extra focus extended to the Navy, covering the nuclear submarine cruiser “Prince Pozharsky,“ submarines, and surface vessels. The disclosure has triggered widespread speculation and concern on the global stage, with Russian President Vladimir Putin asserting that this advanced weapon would make Russia’s adversaries “think twice“ before making any threats. But what exactly are the RS-28 Sarmat? How powerful is the Tu-160 M and S-500 air defense system, and what power could this combo unleash?