Russia preparing for next drop test of ICBM Sarmat
MOSCOW. March 13 (Interfax) - The next drop test of the new intercontinental ballistic missile Sarmat is being prepared, the Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Gen. of the Army Valery Gerasimov, said in a conference call.
"The first test-launch of the missile was conducted in late December of last year. Preparations for the next drop test are in full swing at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome," Gerasimov said.
Sarmat is superior to every existent intercontinental ballistic missile, he said.
"It weighs over 200 tonnes, has a shorter powered flight and heightened capacity for penetrating missile defense, and can carry heavy high-yield warheads," Gerasimov said.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said in his address to the Federal Assembly on March 1 that the Defense Ministry and rocket-and-space enterprises have begun testing the Sarmat.