RSM-56 Bulava Missile

Source-This post on RSM-56 Bulava Missile is based on the article “Putin Adds New Nuclear Missile To Russia’s Arsenal: How Deadly Is Bulava Submarine-Launched ICBM?” published in “Hindustan Times” on 17th May 2024.

Why in the News?

Russian President Vladimir Putin has strengthened Russia’s military capabilities by directing the inclusion of a new nuclear-capable missile, the Bulava, into the Russian military’s arsenal.

About the RSM-56 Bulava Missile

1. About: The RSM-56 Bulava is a Russian submarine-launched intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). It is also known to NATO as SS-N-32.

2. Design and Development: It was designed by the Moscow Institute of Thermal Technology and its development started in the late 1990s. The missile is intended for deployment on Russia’s Borei-class submarines.

3. Key Features:

a) Structure: The Bulava is a three-stage missile that uses solid propellant.

b) Specifications: It has a launch mass of approximately 36.8 tonnes and a throw weight of 1,150 kg. The missile measures 12.1 meters in length within its launch container and has a diameter of 2 meters.

c) Range and Payload: Bulava can travel up to 8,300 km (5,160 miles) and carries up to 10 multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRVs) which are designed to deliver nuclear warheads to various targets.

d) Capabilities: The missile’s re-entry vehicles (RVs) are capable of in-flight maneuverability and re-targeting, allowing them to potentially evade enemy defenses.

e) Accuracy: The RVs have an expected accuracy of about 250 to 300 meters.

4. Strategic Importance: Bulava represents a crucial element of Russia’s future strategic nuclear force enhancing the country’s nuclear deterrent capabilities.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology