Russia notifies US of Sarmat intercontinental missile tests

Russia notified the United States and other countries ahead of tests involving its Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, the Kremlin confirmed, saying the move was carried out in strict accordance with international agreements.

The notification was transmitted through the National Center for Nuclear Risk Reduction, a dedicated communication channel established specifically to manage the exchange of sensitive military information between nuclear-armed states and their partners. The center serves as a formal mechanism for conveying advance warnings whenever ballistic missiles are launched, helping to ensure that such events are not misidentified as hostile acts.

Moscow said the advance warning was intended to prevent misunderstandings and reduce unnecessary tension during the testing period. The Kremlin's statement underscored that established protocols remain in place between Russia and the United States even amid broader strains in bilateral relations. The Sarmat, known in NATO reporting as SS-X-30 Satan 2, is a heavy liquid-fueled ICBM designed to replace aging Soviet-era intercontinental missiles in Russia's strategic nuclear arsenal.