Russia continues to use intimidation tactics. On the night of May 19, Russian forces plan to carry out a “training and combat” launch of an RS-24 intercontinental ballistic missile from the Yars complex, informs the Defense Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.
The Ukrainian intelligence reports that Russia plans to deploy the RS-24 Yars missile as an act of coercion and intimidation. This demonstration aims at both Ukraine and EU/NATO countries. It is set to occur during the evening of May 19, 2025.
According to Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence, the missile will have a practice warhead. The test firing will take place using a mobile land-based launcher operated by members of the 433rd Guards Missile Regiment within the 42nd Missile Division, which is itself part of Russia’s Strategic Rocket Forces’ 31st Army.
The launching facility is situated close to the town of Svobodny in Russia’s Sverdlovsk area.
Ukrainian intelligence noted that the range of this three-stage solid-fuel missile exceeds 10,000 kilometers.
Information regarding the Yars system
The Russian Yars missile system (also known as RS-24 Yars) is a strategic intercontinental ballistic missile. It has been operational with the Russian Strategic Rocket Forces since 2009.
The system was created as an updated version of the previous Topol-M systems. It includes enhanced abilities to overcome missile defense mechanisms.
The Yars missiles have the capability to transport several individually targetable nuclear warheads. This feature complicates their detection and interception by contemporary air defense networks. These projectiles can be deployed via both stationary silos and movable land platforms. Such flexibility boosts their endurance and minimizes exposure to initial attacks.
Russia prominently displays this weapon as an emblem of its nuclear prowess. The Kremlin frequently carries out drills and declares the installation of advanced launch systems.
In late March, Russia allegedly initiated military drills that involved missiles equipped with nuclear warheads. The exercise encompasses test firings of the Yars intercontinental ballistic missile.
Previously, in February, Russia carried out drill activities that included covert firings of Yars intercontinental ballistic missiles in the Volga area.
