US Department of Defense: “Russia’s Missiles Are ICBM-Based Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missiles”
The US Department of Defense reported that Russia launched an Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) against Ukraine on the 21st.
Sabrina Singh, the deputy spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense, confirmed this at a press briefing. She stated that Russia used an experimental IRBM based on the RS-26 “Rubez” intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).
Before the launch, Russia notified the United States through a nuclear risk reduction communication channel. The Ukrainian military noted that the missile landed over Dnipro in the Middle East and identified it as an ICBM with a range exceeding 5,500 kilometers.
Russian President Vladimir Putin referred to the missile as the new IRBM “Oratsnik” in a broadcast speech. He claimed it was a hypersonic ballistic missile aimed at Ukrainian military targets.
How effective are current air defense systems against advanced missile technologies like the Oratsnik?
Interview with Dr. Alexei Petrov, Ballistic Missile Expert
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Petrov. The US Department of Defense recently confirmed that Russia launched an Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) against Ukraine on the 21st of November. Can you explain the significance of this missile and its implications for the ongoing conflict?
Dr. Petrov: Thank you for having me. The launch of the IRBM, identified as the “Oratsnik,” is significant because it showcases Russia’s continued investment in advanced military technology and its willingness to escalate the conflict with Ukraine. The Oratsnik is reportedly based on the RS-26 “Rubez,” an intercontinental ballistic missile, which adds a layer of sophistication and range to Russia’s capabilities. Its range exceeding 5,500 kilometers allows it to strike targets much deeper than before, potentially reaching NATO territories.
Interviewer: Deputy spokesperson Sabrina Singh mentioned that Russia notified the United States of this launch through a nuclear risk reduction communication channel. How does this communication impact the strategic dynamics between the two countries?
Dr. Petrov: The notification indicates a level of strategic caution on Russia’s part. By using the communication channel, they are attempting to mitigate the risks of miscalculation that could lead to larger conflicts. However, this move could also be seen as a psychological strategy aimed at deterring the US and its allies from further military support to Ukraine while simultaneously demonstrating Russia’s advanced capabilities.
Interviewer: In his speech, President Putin claimed that the Oratsnik is uncapturable and warned of further strikes. What does this mean for air defense systems, particularly those expected to be utilized by Ukraine and its allies?
Dr. Petrov: Putin’s assertion that the Oratsnik is difficult to intercept raises serious questions about the effectiveness of current air defense systems. If it can indeed evade detection and interception, it poses a significant threat to Ukrainian military infrastructure. This is particularly concerning as Ukraine is enhancing its defenses with Western-supplied technology. The effectiveness of US and allied air defense systems will come under scrutiny if they are unable to counteract such advanced threats.
Interviewer: With President Putin threatening further missile strikes in response to increased Western support for Ukraine, what potential escalation should we anticipate in the coming weeks?
Dr. Petrov: We should remain vigilant for an escalation in hostilities. Putin’s rhetoric indicates he is prepared to escalate military actions as a countermeasure to perceived threats from Western involvement. This could result in an increase in missile strikes targeting critical infrastructure in Ukraine, and potentially spill over into retaliatory actions that involve NATO countries directly, raising the stakes considerably.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Petrov, for your insights on this complicated and evolving situation.
Dr. Petrov: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic.
Putin warned of more missile strikes in response to the US and UK providing long-range weapons to Ukraine. He stated that there is no way to intercept the Oratsnik missile and that he would give prior notice of any further attacks for humanitarian reasons, according to TASS, the state-run news agency.
This information was also reported by VOA News and cited Reuters.