26 April 2004 11:35
Russian mobile-launched strategic missile could go into service in 2006
Moscow, 26 April: Flight tests of the Topol-M strategic missile system using a mobile launcher will be completed this
year, Yuriy Solomonov, director of the Moscow Institute of Heat Technology and Topol chief designer, said in an
interview with ITAR-TASS news agency. [Passage omitted: Test launch on 20 April was part of ongoing programme.]
Solomonov said that the first regiment armed with mobile-launched Topol-M systems could be operational in 2006.
At the moment, there are four operational silo-launched Topol-M regiments. The two versions of the Topol-M missile
system will form the basis of the Strategic Missile Troops in the 21st century. "Judging by the way the missile
system is being brought into service, it will be part of the Russian army's armaments up until 2040,"
Solomonov said.
[Passage omitted: 20 April test was at maximum range of 11,000 km.]
[ITAR-TASS news agency] |
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