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Putin Oversees Nuclear Drills Simulating Massive Retaliatory Strike; All Missiles Reach Targets

Oct 29, 2024, 03:06 PM

Russian President Vladimir Putin oversaw strategic nuclear drills simulating a massive retaliatory strike in response to a potential nuclear attack on Russia. During the exercises, Deputy Defense Minister Viktor Belousov reported to Putin that the forces practiced a massive nuclear strike in retaliation to an enemy nuclear attack, with all missiles successfully reaching their designated targets. The drills, conducted amid heightened geopolitical tensions, involved the launch of ballistic and cruise missiles from land-based facilities, submarines, and strategic bombers. Among the missiles launched were the Yars intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome, the Sineva ballistic missile from the Barents Sea, and the Bulava missile from the Sea of Okhotsk. The exercises also included practice launches from Tu-95MS strategic bombers. Putin emphasized that while Russia does not seek to participate in an arms race, it will continue to improve its strategic deterrence capabilities. He stated that nuclear weapons are an "extreme measure to ensure the country's security" and that the nuclear triad remains a reliable guarantor of Russia's sovereignty. The drills underscore Russia's focus on maintaining a robust nuclear triad and demonstrate its strategic capabilities. The successful completion of the exercises, with all missiles reaching their targets, signals Russia's readiness to respond to potential threats.