Ukraine Claims Russia Launched an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile… What is an ICBM?

Ukrainian President Claims Russia Tests Weapons in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia is using Ukraine as a testing ground for weapons. He referred to a missile attack on Dnipro on November 21, highlighting that the missile’s speed and altitude suggested it was an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

Russia has not commented on this attack. Western officials suspect the missile was indeed an ICBM. If confirmed, this would mark the first use of an ICBM in a conflict between countries.

What is an ICBM?

Intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) are designed to deliver warheads over long distances. Each missile can carry multiple warheads, allowing them to target various locations simultaneously. The Soviet Union launched the first ICBM in August 1957. Today, Russia, the United States, and China have significant arsenals, while the UK, France, India, Israel, and North Korea possess smaller quantities.

ICBMs are known for their superior range and speed compared to other ballistic missiles.

ICBM Range

ICBMs typically have a range exceeding 5,500 km. Russian ICBMs can reach over 10,000 km, meaning missiles launched from southern Russia could theoretically hit the East Coast of the United States.

ICBM Speed

The missiles used in the Dnipro attack are believed to be RS-26 Rubez missiles, with a speed of 24,500 km per hour (approximately 7 km per second). They follow a ballistic trajectory, which allows them to be faster and harder to intercept than slower cruise missiles.

Do ICBMs Carry Nuclear Warheads?

ICBMs can carry nuclear or conventional warheads. The missile involved in the Dnipro attack was not indicated to have a nuclear payload. The Ukrainian Air Force reported minimal damage from the missile strike.

ICBM Costs

The exact costs of Russia’s ICBM program are unclear, but the U.S. recently approved a Sentinel ICBM program costing $140 billion. Each Sentinel ICBM costs around $162 million, reflecting the high expense associated with these weapons.

Why Now?

The conflict in Ukraine has lasted over 1,000 days and is intensifying. North Korea has sent troops to Russia, escalating tensions. President Biden authorized the U.S. to use ATACMS missiles against targets in Russia. British and French missiles have also targeted Russian sites. Russia has warned of a response if Ukraine uses long-range missiles against Russian territory. Tensions rise with President-elect Donald Trump’s promise to quickly end the war in Ukraine.