Oreshnik Missile

Why in News

Russia recently announced that its nuclear-capable Oreshnik missiles have entered active service in Belarus, a neighbouring ally bordering NATO members Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. This move has significant implications for regional security and strategic deterrence in Europe.

About the Oreshnik Missile

The Oreshnik missile is a Russian-made, intermediate-range ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear or conventional warheads. It was first operationally launched on November 21, 2024, targeting the Pivdenmash defence-industrial facility in Dnipro, Ukraine.

Features of the Oreshnik Missile

Size: Approximately 15 to 18.5 metres in length and 1.9 metres in diameter.
Mobility: Mounted on a mobile transporter and launcher, enabling rapid deployment and concealment.
Range: Estimated range of 5,000 kilometres (3,100 miles), allowing it to strike targets across Europe and even parts of the United States.
Payload: Equipped with multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRVs), capable of carrying 6 to 8 warheads to strike multiple targets simultaneously.
Speed: Hypersonic capability with speeds up to Mach 10 (12,300 km/h or 7,610 mph).

Strategic Significance

The deployment of Oreshnik missiles in Belarus increases Russia’s strategic reach in Europe, enhancing its nuclear deterrence posture and posing a potential threat to NATO territories. Its mobility, range, and MIRV capability make it a highly flexible and formidable component of Russia’s missile arsenal.

Source: THE HINDU

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