Land-Based Strategic Weapons

  SS-18 Satan ICBM
  SS-19 Stiletto ICBM
  SS-24 Scalpel ICBM
  SS-25 Sickle ICBM
  SS-27 Topol-M ICBM

Sea-Based Strategic Weapons

  Delta III SSBN
  Delta IV SSBN
  Typhoon SSBN
  SS-N-18 Stingray SLBM
  SS-N-20 Sturgeon SLBM
  SS-N-23 Skiff SLBM

Air-Based Strategic Weapons

  Tu-95H Bear
  Tu-160 Blackjack
  AS-15 Kent ALCM
  AS-16 Kickback SRAM

Non-Strategic Nuclear Delivery Systems

  SH-08 Gaxelle ABM
  SH-11 Gorgon ABM
  SA-5B Gammon SAM
  SA-10 Grumble SAM
  AS-4 Kitchen ASM
  Gravity Bombs
  SS-N-9 Siren SLCM
  SS-N-12 Sandbox SLCM
  SS-N-19 Shipwreck SLCM
  SS-N-21 Sampson SLCM
  SS-N-22 Sunburn SLCM
  SS-N-15 Starfish ASW
  SS-N-16 Stallion ASW
  Type 53-68 and Type 65 Torpedoes
  Depth Charges

Principal sources

SS-18 Satan (RS-20)

   Year Deployed: ~1975
   Dimensions: 36.5 meters length, 3.0 meters diameter
   Weight: 211,100 kilograms
   Propulsion: Two stage liquid fuel plus PBV, cold launch
   Throw-weight: 8,800 kilograms
   Range: Mod 4 - 11,000 kilometers, Mod 5 - unknown, Mod 6 - unknown
   Guidance: Computer-controlled inertial for booster and PBV
   Circular Error Probable: 250 meters
   Warhead: Mod 4 with 10 warheads, Mod 5 with 10 warheads, or Mod 6 with one warhead
   Yield: Mod 4 - 500 kilotons each, Mod 5 - 750 kilotons each, Mod 6 - 20 megatons
   Locations: Uzhur - 52, Aleysk - 30, Kartaly - 46, Dombaroskiy - 52
   Number Deployed: 168 missiles
   Primary Contractor: Yangel Design Bureau

This heavy Russian ICBM carries 10 500-750 kiloton MIRVs, with a moderately accurate circular error probable (CEP) of 250 meters. The Mod 6 version is rumored to carry a single 20 megaton warhead, presumably for destroying the most hardened targets.

The SS-18 was an evolutionary follow-on to the SS-9. The SS-18, along with the SS-17 and SS-19, deployed in the 1970s, represent the fourth generation of Soviet ICBMs. Like the other fourth generation missiles, the SS-18 is transported and stored in a sealed capsule. SS-18s were designated "heavy" missiles under SALT II, and a limit of 308 such heavy ICBMs was established, with Russia soon deploying to that limit. Though limited by treaty to 10 warheads each, the SS-18 is allegedly able to carry more -- its massive throw-weight certainly suggests such.

During the Cold War the SS-18 was perhaps the most feared of Russian strategic systems (hence its demonic NATO designation) because of the supposed threat it posed to U.S. ICBM silos. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Committee on the Present Danger (among others) touted the "window of vulnerability" -- the threat the large, accurate SS-18 posed to U.S. ICBMs. This fear of ICBM vulnerability (which didn't take into account the invulnerability of the sea leg, and the alert posture of the air leg) was a significant impetus for the nuclear buildup of the 1980s iniated by U.S. President Ronald Reagan.

The Reagan administration and the first Bush administration made this missile the focus of their arms control efforts because of its destabilizing capability. With the SS-18 in mind, the START II treaty banned land-based MIRV systems for ICBMs. In recent years, through the Nunn-Lugar program, the United States has sponsored the dismantlement of many of these missiles.

Under START II, the SS-18 was to have been eliminated by 2007. Even if reductions do not proceed at the pace necessitated by START II, the SS-18 is likely to be eliminated by the end of the decade.

SS-19 Stiletto (RS-18)

   Year Deployed: 1982
   Dimensions: 27 meters length, 2.5 meters diameter
   Weight: 105,600 kilograms
   Propulsion: Two-stage liquid fuel plus PBV, hot launch
   Throw-weight: 4,950 kilograms
   Range: 10,000 kilometers
   Guidance: Inertial, with onboard digital computer, and PBV
   Circular Error Probable: 300 meters
   Warhead: Mod 3 has 6 MIRVs (under START II, assumed to be downloaded to Mod 2 with 1 warhead)
   Yield: Mod 3 - 550 kilotons, Mod 2 - 5 megatons
   Locations: Tatischevo, Kozel'sk
   Number Deployed: 150 missiles (105 planned)
   Primary Contractor: Chelomei Design Bureau

The SS-19 is a fourth-generation ICBM. The SS-19 Mod 3 can carry 6 MIRVs, but under the START II Treaty, 105 of them are to be downloaded to one re-entry vehicle — it is assumed this will correspond to the previous one-warhead version, the SS-19 Mod 2. As of 2002, it is unclear how the additional cuts in strategic arsenals announced by Presidents George W. Bush and Vladimir Putin will affect these reductions, if at all. Whatever the case, with a maximum life of 25 years, it is likely that only 72 SS-19s will remain operational by 2008, and near zero by 2010.

Like the other fourth generation Russian ICBMs, the SS-19 is transported and deployed in silos within a protective canister. The SS-19s are based in silos estimated hardened to withstand 2,500-4,000 pounds per square inch (psi) overpressure, with some hardened to 6,000-7,000 psi, the hardest in the world. Even so, the days of secure silo-basing are long gone. A U.S. D-5 SLBM warhead would have little difficulty destroying such a silo — because of their high accuracy, U.S. warheads can "crater" a silo with their blast. Such accuracy could even destroy even the theoretical "super-hard" silos (50,000 psi protection was deemed possible) thought up in the 1980s.

SS-24 Scalpel (RS-22 Molodets)

   Year Deployed: 1987
   Dimensions: 23.8 meters length, 2.4 meters diameter
   Weight: 104,500 kilograms
   Propulsion: Three stage solid plus PBV, cold launch
   Throw-weight: 4,050 kilograms
   Range: 10,000 kilometers
   Guidance: Computer-controlled inertial plus PBV
   Circular Error Probable: : 200 meters
   Warhead: 10 warheads
   Yield: 300-500 kilotons
   Locations: Bershet, Kostroma, Krasnoyarsk, Tatishchevo
   Number Deployed: 36 missiles
  Primary Contractor: Nadiradze Design Bureau

The SS-24 is one of the fifth generation of Russian ICBMs, along with the SS-25. Both systems are mobile, though the SS-24 is a rail-mobile missile (Mod 1), with some based in silos (Mod 2.) The rail-mobile version can be seen as the analogue to the AMERICAN concern about missile survivability, as exemplified in the rail-garrison MX Peacekeeper plans. SS-24 missile trains reportedly have three missile-launching cars, several diesel locomotives, an electrical power generator car, a command car, and several support cars. The trains are camouflaged as standard freight cars. Alert duty was cut back drastically in 1994 due to lack of fuel for the trains.

Production of the SS-24 ceased in 1991 with 90 missiles deployed. In that same year, there was the "Space Clipper" proposal to use SS-24s as civilian satellite launch vehicles. The missiles were to be dropped out of a converted Antonov-124 aircraft at 33,000 feet with parachutes, and then launched vertically while drifting downwards.

As multiple warhead ICBMs, all SS-24s are slated for destruction under START II. With a relatively short 10-year lifespan, the Russians would have difficulty maintaining the SS-24s even if they wanted to, as Ukrainian production facilities for key spare parts have closed. The SS-24 is likely to be eliminated by 2007, with or without START II.

SS-25 Sickle (RS-12 Topol)

   Year Deployed: 1985
   Dimensions: 21.5 meters length, 1.8 meters diameter
   Weight: 45,100 kilograms
   Propulsion: 3 stage solid-fuel plus PBV, cold launch
   Throw-weight: 1,000 kilograms
   Range: 10,500 kilometers
   Guidance: Presumed inertial with onboard digital computers
   Circular Error Probable: Estimated 200 meters
   Warhead: Single warhead
   Yield: 750 kilotons
   Locations: Irkutsk - 36, Kansk - 46, Novosibirsk - 45, Yoshkar-Ola - 36, Nizhniy Tagil - 45, Yur'ya - 45, Teykovo - 36, Vypolzpvp - 9, Barnaul - 36, Drovyanaya - 18
   Number Deployed: 360 missiles
   Primary Contractor: Nadiradize Design Bureau

This small, fifth-generation ICBM is the latest Russian land-based missile. It can either be carried on an off-road, unhardened transporter-erector vehicle (TEL), or stationed in silos. There was some controversy surrounding the SS-25, which the Soviets claimed was an upgrade to the SS-13 Savage. The United States claimed the SS-25 was more than 5 percent larger than the SS-13, qualifying it as a new system, and therefore a violation of the SALT II Treaty.

The mobile component is by START I, which stipulates that in peace-time mobile missile garrisons are confined to groups of 10 missiles in a 25 square kilometer area. The SS-25 is accurate, and its one warhead has a comparatively large yield. This combination makes it the most credible hard-target kill ballistic missile of Russia's arsenal.

All currently deployed missiles, including those returned from Belarus, are mobile. An improved variant, the Topol-M (sometimes referred to as the SS-X-29), was first flight-tested on Dec. 20, 1994, with flight testing continuing thereafter. With components of its guidance system manufactured in Ukraine and other parts made in Belarus, the SS-25 program could fall victim to the breakup of the Soviet Union. The missile will likely fall entirely out of service by 2010.

SS-27 RT-2UTTH (Topol-M)

   Year Deployed: 1997
   Dimensions: 21 meters length, 1.86 meters height
   Weight: 47,200 kilograms
   Propulsion: 3 stage, solid propellant
   Throw-weight: 1,000-1,200 kilograms
   Range: 10,500 kilometers
   Guidance: Presumed inertial with onboard digital computers
   Circular Error Probable: Unknown
   Warhead: Unknown
   Yield: Unknown
   Locations: Unknown
   Number Deployed: 24
   Primary Contractor: Moscow Institute of Thermal Technology

The Chinese M series of tactical short-range ballistic missiles began development in the early 1980s. Three versions are known, the M-9, M-11, and M-18 -- the M designations are used for the export versions. The Pakistanis reportedly have purchased the M-11 (which the Chinese refer to as the Dong Feng-11). The missile was first revealed at a Chinese exhibition in 1988, and was displayed with a transporter erector vehicle similar to that used with the M-9 (DF-15). The M-11 has two solid fueled stages as well as terminal guidance, which provides increased accuracy and a range of 300 kilometers.

A series of press leaks of U.S. intelligence community findings lend credence to the claims of the Pakistani M-11 sales. The intelligence community has claimed since 1992 that China sold more than 30 missiles to Pakistan, despite denials by both governments. The missiles are allegedly stored in crates at Pakistan's Sargodha Air Force Base. The most recent leak claims "high confidence" that the missiles are in Pakistan, and that Pakistan has finished developing warheads for the missiles. U.S. intelligence agencies are almost unanimous in the belief that Pakistan could assemble the missiles within a few days. Chinese experts have reportedly trained the Pakistani unit assigned to fire the missiles.

Pakistan may be using the M-11 to reverse engineer its own missile, the Tarmuk. It is uncertain whether the M-11 has nuclear capacity, but in order to fit nuclear warheads to the missile Pakistan would likely require Chinese help.

Sea-Based Strategic Weapons

Delta III SSBN (Type 667BDR Kalmar)

   Year Deployed: 1982
   Displacement: 10,000 tons surfaced, 11,700 tons dived
   Dimensions: 152 meters length, 12.1 meters beam, 8.7 meters draft
   Propulsion: 2 nuclear reactors, 2 turbines, 2 shafts
   Speed: 24 knots dived, 19 knots surfaced
  
   Missiles: 16 SS-N-18 Stingray SLBMs
   Locations: Rybachiy, Yagel'naya
   Number Deployed: 7 submarines
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

The Delta IIIs (Russian designation, Kalmar class, Type 667BDR) carry the SS-N-18, the first MIRVed Soviet SLBM. There are several variants of this missile, and some Delta IIIs have reportedly been retrofitted to fire the SS-N-23 used in the Delta IVs. The Russians may decide to retrofit the entire Delta III fleet and replace the older SS-N-18, though Admiral Gromov, Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy, said in 1993 that Russia would retain 176 SS-N-18s. Like the other Delta class SSBNs, it has a distinctive "hump" over the missile tube housing.

Originally there were 14 Delta IIIs; six have been retired in recent years and one has been converted to a Deep Submergence Rescue carrier. The revised Russian fleet plan suggests that the entire Delta III class may be retired in the next decade.

Russian ballistic missile submarine doctrine holds that the SSBNs should put to sea in protected waters close to Russian shores. These patrol areas, known as bastions, can be protected by patrol aircraft, sonar listening networks, surface anti-submarine vessels, and friendly submarines.

Also, unlike U.S. ballistic missile submarines, which have had two crews and maintained 55-66 percent at-sea rates, the Soviets only managed about 20 percent at-sea with one crew during the Cold War, with an additional 10-20 percent of subs dockside with the range to hit U.S. targets. Present Russian SSBN at-sea rates are not even measured in percentages — according to the Pentagon, the current Russian day-to-day sea-based deterrent force is only a single boat. Currently, one Russian missile submarine is at sea at any given time (with between 48 and 200 warheads), as opposed to an average of nine American Tridents (with 1,728 warheads).

Delta IV SSBN (Type 667BDRM Delfin)

   Year Deployed: 1984
   Displacement: 10,750 tons surfaced, 12,150 tons dived
   Dimensions: 158 meters length, 12 meters beam, 8.7 meters draft
   Propulsion: 2 nuclear reactors, 2 turbines, 2 shafts
   Speed: 24 knots dived, 19 knots surfaced
  
   Missiles: 16 SS-N-23 Skiff SLBMs
   Locations: Yagel'naya - 7
   Number Deployed: 7 submarines
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

Referred to as the Delfin-class (Type 667BDRM) by the Russians, the Delta IV is the latest of the four Delta-classes of SSBNs. The Delta-class is itself a modification of the older Yankee class, and constitutes the fourth-generation of Russian SSBNs. The Delta IV's missiles were recently upgraded following testing of a more accurate SS-N-23 version in 1988. Like the other Delta-class SSBNs, it has a distinctive "hump" over the missile tube housing.

The seven Delta IVs are all based on the Kola Peninsula, with protected bastion patrol areas in the nearby Barents Sea, and easy access to the Arctic.

Typhoon SSBN (Type 941 Akula)

   Year Deployed: 1982
   Displacement: 21,500 tons surfaced, 26,500 tons dived
   Dimensions: 165 meters length, 24.6 meters beam, 13 meters draft
   Propulsion: 2 nuclear reactors, 2 turbines, 2 shafts
   Speed: 26 knots dived, 19 knots surfaced
  
   Missiles: 20 SS-N-20 Sturgeon SLBMs
   Locations: Nerpich'ya
   Number Deployed: 3 submarines
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

In 2000, one Typhoon was scrapped. Two others are believed to have gone out service, leaving three of the original six submarines. Maintenance problems and lack of funding may drive the entire submarine class to retirement in the next decade.

These boats are the largest submarines in the world, referred to by the Russians as the Akula (Type 941), not to be confused with the NATO designation for a completely different Russian attack sub. Quieter than the Delta classes, it also has more sheer firepower. The Typhoon represents the fifth generation of Russian SSBNs.

It can carry 20 SS-N-20 SLBMs, each capable of carrying 10 MIRVs, though they will probably be downloaded to six. These boats are extremely sturdy, built with double hulls and able to break through three meters of ice to launch their missiles. All three are based at the Kola Peninsula, for easy access to Arctic patrol areas. In 1995, a Typhoon (reportedly one of only two operational at the time) launched an SS-N-20 missile from the North Pole.

Even if the submarines remain in service, Russia's failure to develop a follow-on to the SS-N-20 missile make it is uncertain that the Typhoon will continue to carry operational ballistic missiles past 2007.

SS-N-18 Stingray SLBM Mod 1 (RSM-50)

   Year Deployed: 1982
   Dimensions: .6 meters length, 1.8 meters diameter
   Weight: 35,300 kilograms
   Propulsion: Two stage liquid fuel plus PBV
   Throw-Weight: 1,650 kilograms declared
   Range: 6,500 kilometers
   Guidance: Stellar inertial
   Circular Error Probable: 900 meters
   Warhead: 3 MIRVs (Mod 3 had 7 MIRVs)
   Yield: 200 kilotons per warhead
   Locations: 7 Delta III SSBNs
   Number Deployed: 112 missiles
   Primary Contractor: Makeyev Design Bureau

The Russians refer to the SS-N-18 as the RSM-50. This fifth-generation SLBM was first deployed in 1977 aboard the Delta III SSBNs. Its accuracy is poor. There are some indications, such as the continued use of a similar stellar guidance system, that the SS-N-18 is a derivative of the older SS-N-8 Sawfly that was deployed on Delta I and II boats.

SS-N-18 Mods 1 and 3 were the first multiple warhead Soviet SLBMs. Given these missiles' inaccuracy and the fact that several may have been replaced aboard the Delta IIIs by the more advanced SS-N-23, this missile may be phased out in the near future. There have been conflicting statements about this possibility (see description of Delta III SSBN). In 1991, the Russians announced that all their SS-N-18s had been downloaded to three missiles, presumably in the Mod 1 configuration. Also, the SS-N-18 has been proposed to launch small satellites into low earth orbit, under the name "Volyna."

With the Delta III submarine class in rapid decline and facing elimination, the SS-18 is projected to be eliminated entirely by 2010.

SS-N-20 Sturgeon (RSM-52)

   Year Deployed: 1981
   Dimensions: 18 meters length, 2.4 meters diameter
   Weight: 84,000 kilograms
   Propulsion: 3 stage solid fuel plus PBV
   Throw-Weight: 2,550 kilograms
   Range: 8,300 kilometers
   Guidance: Inertial plus stellar reference update, computer-controlled PBV
   Circular Error Probable: 500 meters
   Warhead: 10 MIRVs (to be downloaded to 6 MIRVs under START II)
   Yield: 100 kilotons per warhead
   Locations: 3 Typhoon SSBNs, storage
   Number Deployed: 60 missiles
   Primary Contractor: Makeyev Design Bureau

While it had considerable testing difficulties, the SS-N-20 (Russian name, RSM-52) is one of the newest and most accurate Russian SLBMs (sixth generation), and has been compared to the American Trident I C-4. A three-stage, solid-fuel missile first deployed in 1981, the SS-N-20 can carry a large load of 10 MIRVs. These missiles are carried on the three Typhoon subs.

Efforts to extend the missile's service life have floundered. One upgrade program collapsed with the Soviet Union. Another follow-on program was canceled in 1997 after several test failures. Even if the reduced Typhoon fleet remains in service, the SS-N-20 is likely to fall out of service as its operational life expires. The Typhoon submarines could then be deployed without operational ballistic missiles.

SS-N-23 Skiff (RSM-54)

   Year Deployed: 1985
   Dimensions: Estimated 16.8 meters length, 1.9 meters diameter
   Propulsion: 3 stages, liquid fuel plus PBV
   Throw-Weight: 2,800 kilograms
   Range: 8,300 kilometers
   Guidance: Inertial plus stellar reference update, computer-controlled PBV
   Circular Error Probable: 900 meters
   Warhead: 4 MIRVs (can carry 10 MIRVs)
   Yield: 100 kilotons per warhead
   Locations: 7 Delta IV SSBNs
   Number Deployed: 112 missiles
   Primary Contractor: Makeyev Design Bureau

A three-stage, liquid-propelled missile, the SS-N-23 is the other of Russia's newest SLBMs, referred to as the RSM-54. Like the SS-N-20, the SS-N-23 had considerable testing and reliability difficulties, but it is assumed these have been largely solved and that it is a mature system.

The SS-N-23s are carried on the Delta IV SSBNs, though some have been reportedly backfitted on the Delta III subs as well. The SS-N-23 has also been described as the SS-N-18's follow-on. Even though it has the capability to carry 10 MIRVs, it is counted as four MIRVs under the START I treaty, and this is the number of warheads per missile postulated for future deployment. Today, seven Delta IV submarines carry 112 SS-N-23 missiles each, for a total of 448 warheads.

Of the three Russian SLBMs, only the SS-N-23, the newest missile type, is likely to remain in service into the next decade. Production recently resumed in Krasnoyarsk and follow-on missile programs are underway.

Air-Based Strategic Weapons

Tu-95 bomber "Bear-H" (TU-95MS6/16)

   Year Deployed: 1956
   Dimensions: 49 meters length, 13.3 meters height, 50.04 meters wingspan
   Weight: Empty -94,000 kilograms, Maximum takeoff - 185,000 kilograms
   Propulsion: 4 Kuznetsov NK-12MP turboprops
   Range: (Unrefueled) 6,400 kilometers
   Max. Speed: Mach 0.83
   Maximum Loadout: H6 version - 6 AS-15 Kent ALCM or AS-16 Kickback SRAM, H16 version - 16 AS-15 Kent ALCM or AS-16 Kickback SRAM
   Weapon Load: 11,340 kilograms
   Number Deployed: 34 Bear H16s, 29 Bear H6s, 63 Bear H total
   Primary Contractor: Tupelov Design Bureau

These heavy bombers are turboprop-driven, though in most cases they were built recently (up until 1992.) There are two main nuclear-equipped versions, named for the number of weapons they can carry — the Bear H6 (Russian designation, Tu-95 MS6) and H16 (Tu-95 MS16). The H-6 carries six weapons internally on a rotary launcher, while the H-16 carries an additional 10 on exterior pylons.

The Bear H is a cruise missile platform, presumably carrying AS-15 Kent air launched cruise missiles (ALCM), and AS-16 Kickback short-range attack missiles (SRAM). Like the B-52, the Bear will continue to be an effective cruise missile carrier since modern, high performance characteristics are not required for its standoff mission.

Given the current economic situation in Russia, however, and its effect on military funding, the operational level of these aircraft is questionable. While no specific information is available, 50 percent operational levels are common throughout the Russian Air Forces, due mainly to decreased maintenance. Also, unlike the United States, which kept its bombers on strip alert from 1960-1991, the Russians have never had such a policy.

Tu-160 Blackjack bomber

   Year Deployed: 1987
   Dimensions: 35.6/55.7 (swept/spread/) meter wingspan, 54.1 meters length, 13.1 meters height
   Weight: takeoff - 275,000 kilograms
   Propulsion: 4 Samara/Trud NK-321 turbofans
   Range: (Unrefueled) 12,300 kilometers
   Max. Speed: Mach 2.3
   Maximum Loadout: 24 AS-15 "Kent" ALCM or AS-16 "Kickback" SRAM
   Weapon Load: 16,330 kilograms
   Number Deployed: 15 bombers(at Engels-Saratov), plus one test aircraft
   Primary Contractor: Tupelov Design Bureau

The latest Russian bomber is the four-engined, variable-wing geometry, supersonic Blackjack, the largest and heaviest bomber in the world. Though it has the high speeds characteristic of a penetrating bomber, the Blackjack appears to be configured for cruise missile (AS-15) and short-range attack missile (AS-16) use, with two interior rotary launchers mounting up to 12 weapons each. The design appears quite sleek and modern, almost a mirror image of the B-1B — a similarity which the Pentagon capitalized on in the 1980s when they in part justified building that bomber based on this similar Soviet threat. Like the B-1B, the Blackjack is designed with some stealthy characteristics. However, unlike the B-1B program, which produced 100 aircraft, the Blackjack stopped at 15, although allegedly a 100+ production run was planned.

Problems surfaced with these massive bombers even before the end of the Soviet Union. On May 1, 1990, Krasnaya Zvezda (Red Star, the Russian military journal) reported that Blackjack crews were chronically short of helmets, oxygen masks, and high altitude pressure suits. Likewise, maintenance workers were exposed to toxic substances and experienced hearing loss while working on the bombers.

AS-15 Kent ALCM (Kh-55 or RKV-500)

   Year Deployed: 1984
   Dimensions: 6 meters length, 3.1 meter wingspan, .51 meters body diameter (A) .77 meters (B) body diameter
   Weight: 1,500 kilograms
   Propulsion: Turbofan
   Range: 3,000 kilometers
   Max. Speed: Mach .6
   Guidance: Inertial with terrain matching
   Circular Error Probable: Estimated 46 meters
   Yield: 250 kilotons
   Locations: Bear H and Blackjack bombers
   Number Deployed: Unknown, ~600 missiles
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

This long-range, subsonic cruise missile was introduced in 1984, several years after the development of the U.S. ALCM. The Russians refer to it as the Kh-55 or RKV-500. Like its U.S. counterpart, it has a long range, though less than half that of the ALCM, and fair accuracy. The AS-15 likely cruises at 200 meters. Approximately 600 are believed in service.

The A model is designed to be carried by the Bear Hs and the B model by the Blackjacks. This weapon gives the Bear H a credible standoff capability. This design is shared by the SS-N-21 Sampson naval cruise missile, and the SSC-X-4 ground-launch version, although the AS-15 is smaller, since air launching obviates the need for an initial booster to get it airborne. Non-nuclear development of the AS-15 is reportedly underway.

There was a Russian follow-on to the AS-15, an analogue to the U.S. Advanced Cruise Missile (ACM), called the AS-19 Koala. This missile, referred to as the BL-10 by the Russians, was a high altitude supersonic cruise missile. In 1990, it was estimated to have an operational capability by 1995, but the program was reportedly canceled.

AS-16 Kickback SRAM (Kh-15P)

   Year Deployed: 1988
   Dimensions: 5.0 meters length, .45 meters diameter, tailspan .9 meters
   Weight: 1,200 kilograms
   Propulsion: Solid fuel
   Range: 200 kilometers
   Guidance: Presumed inertial
   Yield: 350 kilotons
   Locations: Bear H and Blackjack bombers
   Number Deployed: Unknown
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

The AS-16 is a very fast short range weapon designed principally to destroy enemy air defenses. The Russians describe their Kh-15P as an analogue to the recently retired American short-range attack missile (SRAM). Like the American SRAM II, which was canceled, the Russians have said that their AS-16 follow-on missile was also canceled in 1991. Little else is known about the AS-16.

SH-08 Gazelle ABM (UR-96)

   Year Deployed: 1984
   Dimensions: 10 meters length, 1.0 meters body diameter
   Weight: 10,000 kilograms
   Propulsion: Solid fuel
   Range: 80 kilometers
   Guidance: Command
   Yield: 10 kilotons
   Locations: Kiln, Novo-Petrovskoye, Verena, Aleksandrov, Schodna, Mervskino, Kaliningrad, and Lytkarino
   Number Deployed: 64 missiles
   Primary Contractor: Vympel NPO

The SH-08 Gazelle is very similar to the U.S. Sprint ABM interceptor deployed in 1974. The Gazelle is a nuclear-armed endoatmospheric interceptor, and so must have great speed to intercept ballistic missile warheads in the atmosphere which are bearing down at Mach 25. The Gazelle is the second, terminal tier of the Moscow ABM defense system, and would be tasked to intercept warheads that evaded the upper, exoatmospheric tier, consisting of the SH-11 Gorgon. Sixty-four Gazelle missiles are emplaced around Moscow, though there have been reports of continued production, and its silo-launchers may be capable of rapid reloading.

The Moscow ABM system is controlled by the Pill Box radar facility at Pushkino, north of Moscow. The large, phased-array radar covers 360 degrees, although the Pentagon has called this reliance on a single central directing facility a liability. With 100 interceptors arranged in two tiers, the Moscow ABM system could not protect against an attack by U.S. forces, and seems more oriented against accidental launches, and the Chinese, British, and French arsenals. However, a coordinated strike by these smaller nuclear powers would overwhelm the system.

SH-11 Gorgon ABM (UR-96)

   Year Deployed: 1983-4 (SH-11 upgrade)
   Dimensions: 19.8 meters length, 2.57 meters length
   Weight: 33,000 kilograms
   Propulsion: 3 stage liquid fuel
   Max. speed: Unknown
   Range: 350 kilometers
   Guidance: Command
   Yield: 1 megaton
   Locations: Moscow oblast
   Number Deployed: 36 missiles
   Primary Contractor: Vympel NPO

These are modified Galosh ABM missiles, those which first constituted the Moscow ABM system. Thirty-six remain in operation, based in silos surrounding Moscow. These missiles are designed for exoatmospheric interceptions — the first tier of defense, while the SH-08 Gazelle is the second, endoatmospheric tier. They also have a limited anti-satellite capability against targets in low earth orbit.

Little is known about the Galosh's follow-on, the Gorgon. The U.S. government has alleged that the Gorgon launchers have a refire capability of one missile, able to be reloaded in significantly less than one day. Such rapid reload capability is banned by the ABM Treaty under Article V (2). The launchers themselves are based at eight complexes that form a ring about 45 miles outside Moscow.

Should any of the SH-11 Gorgons actually be used in the Moscow vicinity, their 1 megaton yield would itself cause havoc below -- not from the blast, but from the electromagnetic pulse (EMP). A nuclear weapon of that size exploded above the atmosphere causes a large EMP "pancake" as it is called, creating EMP effects throughout line of site to the blast. For instance, a detonation at 50 miles altitude would affect a 500 miles radius with EMP effects; a blast at 100 miles altitude would effect a 900 miles radius. The EMP effects would damage all non-hardened electronic components. It is quite conceivable that while the Moscow ABM system might defend Moscow from a small attack, its very defensive use might temporarily take the heart of Russia out of the electronic age for an indeterminate period of time.

SA5-B Gammon SAM (S-200 Volga)

   Year Deployed: 1963
   Dimensions: 10.6 meters length, .86 meters body diameter
   Weight: 2,800 kilograms
   Propulsion: Solid fuel
   Max. speed: Unknown
   Range: 150 kilometers
   Guidance: Command and semi-active or passive radar
   Yield: 25 kilotons
   Locations: Unknown if still deployed with SAMs or in centralized storage
   Number Deployed: Unknown, ~1,200 total nuclear SAM warheads of all types
   Primary Contractor: Grushkin Design Bureau

The SA-5 was designated the S-200 Volga by the Soviets — the SA-5A and SA-5C are conventional versions; the SA-5B is nuclear. The warhead probably has the option for either command or proximity detonation. It was designed in the 1950s to counter American high-altitude aircraft such as the B-70 Valkyrie and SR-71 Blackbird, as well as the new stand-off missiles such as the Hound Dog, Blue Steel, and Skybolt. The United States has long claimed the SA-5B has an ABM capability (and was tested in this role in the 1970s), particularly given the sizable 25 kiloton nuclear warhead it carries. Over 2,000 missiles are deployed (the percentage of the nuclear SA-5B version is unknown), though the aging SA-5 has increasingly been replaced by the SA-10 Grumble. However, the SA-5 has received numerous upgrades and modifications, including terminal maneuvering capabilities.

It is interesting to note that the warhead of this anti-aircraft missile has a larger yield than the bombs that devastated Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Part of the SA-5B network consists of a line of bases across the northwest approaches to Russia, known as the Tallinn Line. The current status of the nuclear warheads assigned to the strategic SAMs is unknown — they may have been placed with the tactical weapons in centralized storage. Yeltsin did announce in January 1992 that one half of all anti-aircraft nuclear warheads would be destroyed, and because of its age, the SA-5B Gammon would be a prime candidate for elimination.

SA-10 Grumble SAM (S-300)

   Year Deployed: 1980
   Dimensions: .11 meters length, .45 meters body diameter
   Weight: 1,500 kilograms
   Propulsion: Solid fuel
   Max. speed: Estimated 2.0 kilometers/second (7,200 kilometers per hour)
   Range: 45, 75, or 90 kilometers (5 kilometers minimum)
   Guidance: and inertial with semi-active radar
   Yield: Nuclear, yield unknown (conventional version - 130 kilogram high explosive)
   Locations: Unknown if still deployed with SAMs or in centralized storage
   Number Deployed: Unknown, ~1,200 total nuclear SAM warheads of all types
   Primary Contractor: Grushkin Design Bureau

The SA-10 Grumble, along with the naval version, the SA-N-6 Grumble, was developed in the 1970s under the Soviet designation S-300. It is capable of high-altitude interceptions, can intercept large air-to-surface missiles, cruise missiles, and even has a limited capacity to intercept short-range ballistic missiles. In fact, it is alleged that the Russians tried to sell the SA-10 to the Israelis as just such a short-range ABM system. Many have compared the SA-10 to the U.S. Patriot system, a SAM not optimized or designed for theater ballistic missile defense, but with some capability in that area.

There are two versions of the SA-10. The SA-10A is fixed, with a four-rail emplaced launcher, while the B version is mobile, carried in four launch canisters on a MAZ 7910 8x8 transporter erector vehicle. A follow-on SAM designated the SA-17 is reportedly under development. The missile has a capability against targets from 25 meters to 27,000 meters altitude, although it has a minimum range of 5 kilometers. More than 10,000 of these missiles have been manufactured, with numerous exports. There were approximately 1,750 nuclear versions, most deployed around Moscow, although it not known whether the warheads have been removed for centralized storage. President Boris Yeltsin stated that half of Russia's nuclear anti-aircraft weapons would be destroyed (this includes the older SA-5B Gammon.).

There was considerable controversy during the Reagan administration about the possible ABM capability of the SA-10. With so many purchased, including mobile versions, it was thought the SA-10 could form the nucleus of a national ABM system — arguments similar to those the Russian are currently making against the THAAD and Upper Tier theater ballistic missile defense systems.

AS-4 Kitchen ASM (Kh-22 Burya)

   Year Deployed: 1964
   Dimensions: 11.3 meters length, 3.0 meter wingspan, 1.0 meters body diameter
   Weight: 5,900 kilograms
   Propulsion: Liguid fuel
   Max. speed: Mach 3.3
   Range: 400 kilometers
   Guidance: Inertial with active or passive homing
   Yield: 1 megaton (1,000 kilogram conventional warhead)
   Locations: All tactical weapons stored in less than 100 storage sites
   Number Deployed: Unknown, ~1,700 total nonstrategic air nuclear weapons of all types
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

The AS-4 (known to the Russians as the Kh-22 Burya) was first deployed in the 1960s, although there have been at least three variants, the latest of which was deployed in the 1970s. Compared to today's cruise missiles, the AS-4 is large, with delta-shaped wings midway down the fuselage. The missile is designed for high altitude launch, with a cruise altitude in excess of 15 kilometers, followed by a steep terminal dive in to the target.

Approximately 50 were in service as of 1991 for use with Bear-B bombers. These bombers have since been destroyed, but the AS-4 has also been carried by other bombers such as the Tu-22M Backfire, Tu-22 Blinder B, and Tu-95 Bear G. All missiles are in storage.

Gravity Bombs

   Year Deployed: Unknown
   Dimensions: Unknown
   Weight: Unknown
   Circular Error Probable: Unknown
   Max. speed: Mach 3.3
   Yield: Strategic, 5, 20, and 50 megaton bombs, Tactical 250, 350 kiloton variants thought to exist
   Locations: All tactical weapons stored in less than 100 storage sites
   Number Deployed: Unknown, ~1,700 total nonstrategic air nuclear weapons of all types
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

The Russians appear to have abandoned this, the oldest nuclear delivery vehicle, from the strategic role, relying on standoff cruise missiles instead. However, it is believed bombs would be used in the non-strategic role, carried by medium range bombers, as well as strike aircraft. Tactical and strategic bomb versions are known to exist, but again, the strategic bombs would probably not be carried by Russia's current standoff strategic bomber force.

Note the high yields quoted for the bombs. Even the tactical yields are quite high by American standards, whose dial-a-yield B61 has even subkiloton options. As for the strategic bombs, the Russians are known to have tested the largest weapon ever, a 58 megaton weapon capable of delivery by a Bear bomber, on Oct 31, 1961. The Soviet nuclear weapon philosophy in the 1960s emphasized very high-yield weapons, some of which may still exist today.

SS-N-9 Siren SLCM (Malachit 4K85)

   Year Deployed: 1969
   Dimensions: 8.84 meters length, 0.5 meters body diameter
   Weight: 3,300 kilograms
   Propulsion: Solid fuel
   Max. speed: Mach .9
   Range: 110 kilometers
   Guidance: Autopilot with active radar and possibly infrared
   Yield: 200 kilotons (conventional payload is 500 kilograms)
   Locations: All tactical weapons stored in less than 100 storage sites
   Number Deployed: Unknown, 320 total nuclear SLCMs of all types
   Primary Contractor: Zvezda

The SS-N-9 Siren is a relatively short-range anti-ship cruise missile. The SS-N-9 was one of the first generation of Soviet cruise missiles, along with the SS-N-7 Starbright, which it has now fully replaced. The SS-N-9 has in turn largely been superceded by the SS-N-22 Sunburn. The primary purpose for the initial Soviet cruise missiles was the destruction of U.S. carrier task forces, which were an important component of the U.S. nuclear delivery infrastructure in the 1950s when the Siren was being developed.

After launch, the missile climbs to about 100 meters and uses its radar to identify the target. Ten kilometers out, the missile begins a slow, terminal dive onto the target. Some 250 SS-N-9s were believed fitted to Charlie II class SSGNs (nuclear cruise missile submarines), and Nanuchka I and III missile corvettes. 500 Sirens (nuclear and conventional) were believed produced.

As with all Russian naval nuclear weapons, the nuclear version has been recalled to storage. Given the age of this system, and the availability of the newer SS-N-22 Sunburns, the SS-N-9 (certainly the nuclear version at least) is a likely candidate for elimination.

SS-N-12 Sandbox SLCM (Bazalt 4K80)

   Year Deployed: 1976
   Dimensions: 11.7 meters length, 0.88 meters body diameter, 2.1 meters wingspan
   Weight: 4,600 kilograms
   Propulsion: Solid fuel booster and turbojet
   Max. speed: Mach 1.7
   Range: 550 kilometers
   Guidance: Inertial with command updates and active radar
   Yield: 350 kilotons (conventional version has 1,000 kilogram payload)
   Locations: All tactical weapons stored in less than 100 storage sites
   Number Deployed: Unknown, 320 total nuclear SLCMs of all types
   Primary Contractor: NPO Mashinostroyenia

The SS-N-12 Sandbox is a second-generation Soviet cruise missile, an evolutionary improvement over the SS-N-3 Shaddock/Sepal. In recent years, it has been gradually replaced by the third-generation SS-N-19 Shipwreck. Little is known about the missiles, which have not been photographed outside their launch canisters, although it is known that there were significant development difficulties. The missile is launched by a solid-fuel booster, and then switches to a turbojet which allows for supersonic flight. The Sandbox is carried on modified Kiev aircraft carriers, Slava missile cruisers, and Echo II and Juliett submarines. The four Kiev carriers were known to have at least two reloads for each of their eight to 12 launchers.

As with all Russian sea-based nuclear weapons, the nuclear warheads for the SS-N-19s have been withdrawn from service.

SS-N-19 Shipwreck SLCM (P700 Grant)

   Year Deployed: 1980
   Dimensions: 10 meters length, 0.85 meters body diameter
   Weight: 3,250 kilograms
   Propulsion: Solid booster and turbofan
   Max. speed: Mach 1.6 (some sources state Mach 2.0 or 2.5)
   Range: 550 kilometers
   Guidance: Inertial with command update and active radar
   Yield: Nuclear, 500 kilotons (conventional payload 750 kilograms)
   Locations: All tactical weapons stored in less than 100 storage sites
   Number Deployed: Unknown, 320 total nuclear SLCMs of all types
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

The SS-N-19 Shipwreck is a third-generation Russian anti-ship cruise missile system. It was the first Soviet vertically-launched cruise missile, designed to defeat the improved defenses of U.S. carrier battle groups in the 1970s. Little is known about the missile, although it is thought to be similar to the SS-N-12 Sandbox. The SS-N-19 is launched by a solid fuel booster that is jettisoned, and then cruises at an altitude of over 20 kilometers, followed by a terminal dive in to the target.

The SS-N-19 is carried on the Oscar I/II cruise missile submarines, the Kirov battle cruisers, and the Kuznetsov aircraft carrier. Unlike with earlier missiles, current surface ships which carry the SS-N-19 do not have the accompanying missile guidance radar -- targeting for this long-range missile is presumably done through Tu-95 Bear D reconnaissance aircraft or shipborne helicopters such as the Ka-25 Hormone C and the Ka-27 Helix B. Russian radar ocean surveillance satellites (RORSAT) can also be used to target these missiles.

As with all Russian naval nuclear weapons, nuclear-armed SS-N-19s have been withdrawn from the fleet and placed in central storage.

SS-N-21 Sampson SLCM

   Year Deployed: 1987
   Dimensions: 8.09 meters length, 3.3 meter wingspan, .51 meters body diameter
   Weight: 1,700 kilograms
   Propulsion: Turbofan with solid booster
   Max. speed: Mach .6-.7
   Range: 3,000 kilometers
   Guidance: Inertial and terrain matching
   Circular Error Probable: 150 meters
   Yield: 200 kilotons
   Locations: All tactical weapons stored in less than 100 storage sites
   Number Deployed: Unknown, 320 total nuclear SLCMs of all types
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

This long-range nuclear sea-launched cruise missile was removed from the Russian fleet, as were all naval nuclear weapons, in late 1991. The SS-N-21 is very similar to the U.S. SLCM, the Tomahawk TLAM-N, which has also been withdrawn. Other members of the SS-N-21 "family" of cruise missiles are the air-launched AS-15 ALCM, and the ground-launched SSC-X-4.

The SS-N-21 can reportedly be carried aboard the Victor III, Akula, Sierra I and II, and Yankee Notch class SSNs. There were also rumors that the Delta ballistic missile submarines might be fitted to fire the SS-N-21, but this is doubtful. The missile can be fired from a conventional torpedo tube, with the wings expanding after it breaks the surface. The SS-N-21 is initially powered by a solid fuel booster which is jettisoned, then by a turbofan engine. The missile likely has a theater strike role. The follow-on to the SS-N-21, the SS-NX-24, which had undergone testing, has been canceled.

SS-N-22 Sunburn SLCM

   Year Deployed: 1980
   Dimensions: 10.0 meters length, 0.85 meters body diameter
   Weight: 3,950 kilograms
   Propulsion: Solid fuel booster and ramjet
   Max. speed: Mach 2
   Range: 120 kilometers
   Guidance: Inertial with updates and active radar or infrared
   Yield: 200 kilotons (conventional version, 500 kilograms payload)
   Locations: All tactical weapons stored in less than 100 storage sites
   Number Deployed: Unknown, 320 total nuclear SLCMs of all types
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

The SS-N-22 Sunburn is a follow-on to the SS-N-9 Siren. This short-range anti-ship weapon has many improvements over the SS-N-9, particularly its sea-skimming flight profile, lighter weight, improved accuracy, and supersonic speed.

The postulated main role of the SS-N-22 is to destroy vessels equipped with the Aegis command/defense system that guard U.S. carrier battle groups. The very high speed and sea-skimming flight profile would reduce time for defenders to detect and launch defensive missiles. After a launch assisted by a solid fuel booster, the Sunburn cruises at approximately 20 meters altitude. The missile has its own active radar seeker, with improved capability to resist jamming. It takes only 2 minutes to cover the missile's entire range, with an estimated one to two conventional missiles needed to incapacitate a destroyer, or one to five to sink a 20,000 ton merchantman. Needless to say, the nuclear-armed version with a sizeable 200 kiloton warhead would have a large lethal range for ships, sinking them outright or permanently disabling them out to about a 2 kilometer radius, and causing severe damage to weapons and sensors out to 4+ kilometers.

The missile is believed to be able to receive guidance updates from Ka-25 Hormone or Ka-27 Helix-B shipborne anti-submarine helicopters. In 1991, 200 missiles were thought to be in service aboard 14 Sovremenny destroyers and 18 Tarantul III missile corvettes. As with the rest of the Russian naval nuclear weapons, the SS-N-22 nuclear versions have been removed from the fleet and are in centralized storage.

SS-N-15 Starfish ASW

   Year Deployed: 1973
   Dimensions: 6.5 meters length, .53 meters width
   Weight: 1,800 kilograms
   Propulsion: Solid propellant
   Range: 45-50 kilometers
   Guidance: Inertial
   Yield: About 200 kilotons
   Locations: All tactical weapons stored in less than 100 storage sites
   Number Deployed: Unknown, 320 total nuclear SLCMs of all types
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

The SS-N-15 Starfish is a rocket-propelled nuclear depth bomb reportedly copied from the U.S. SUBROC system design. It can be fired from Russian 53 or 60 centimeter torpedo tubes. Until recently, the SS-N-15 was carried by Typhoon, Charlie I/II, Oscar I, Victor I/II, Alfa, Sierra, Mike, and Akula class submarines. It was estimated that four anti-submarine nuclear standoff weapons (either SS-N-15 or SS-N-16) were allocated to each vessel.

In fact, the SS-N-15 and SS-N-16 — the former a nuclear depth charge and the latter a nuclear-tipped torpedo — were considered complementary weapon systems, and both types were jointly assigned to Russian submarines. The weapon is fired from a torpedo tube, then a rocket booster ignites, clearing the surface and transiting to the target's vicinity. The Starfish releases a 200 kiloton nuclear depth charge (the yield is disputed, see in the specifications), which detonates at the optimum depth, likely destroying submarines in a 5-10 kilometer radius.

SS-N-16 Stallion ASW (Vodopod)

   Year Deployed: 1979-81
   Dimensions: 6.7 meters length, .53 meters body diameter
   Weight: 1,850 kilograms
   Propulsion: Solid fuel
   Range: 50 kilometers
   Guidance: Inertial
   Yield: Unknown (conventional version has 100 kilogram payload)
   Locations: All tactical weapons stored in less than 100 storage sites
   Number Deployed: Unknown, 320 total nuclear SLCMs of all types
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

Very little is known about the SS-N-16 Stallion. It is a short-range, submarine-launched weapon, very similar to the U.S. ASROC, and also similar to the Russian SS-N-15 Starfish, of which it is an evolutionary improvement. It differs from the SS-N-15 in that after launch and flight, it releases a torpedo instead of a depth charge. The missile is launched via a 66 centimeter torpedo tube, broaches the surface, and uses its solid-fuel booster to fly to the suspected location of the enemy submarine. It then jettisons the booster and the torpedo deploys a parachute, dropping into the sea and seeking its target with a preprogrammed search pattern.

The Type 45 lightweight torpedo (E45-75A) itself has a range of 15 kilometers at 30 knots speed. It has both active and passive sonar. The torpedo has either a 100 kilogram high explosive warhead (termed the Veder by the Russians), or a nuclear warhead of unknown yield (referred to as the Vodopod). The SS-N-16 is carried aboard the Typhoon, Oscar I/II, Victor III, Sierra I/II, and Akula class submarines — unlike the SS-N-15, it can only be fired by the larger 65 centimeter torpedo tube, limiting the submarines which can carry it. The standard estimate is that each such submarine was allocated four anti-submarine nuclear weapons — a mixture of SS-N-15s or SS-N-16s.

Torpedoes (Type 53-68 HWT / Type 65 HWT)

   Year Deployed: Type 53-68 HWT - 1970 / Type 65 HWT - 1970
   Dimensions: Type 53-68 - 7.8 meters length, Type 65 - 11 meters length
   Weight: Type 53-68 - Unknown, Type 65 - 4,750 kilograms
   Max. Speed: Type 53-68 - 55 knots, Type 65 - 35 knots
   Range: Type 53-68 HWT - 24 kilometers / Type 65 HWT- 50 kilometers
   Yield: 20 kilotons (in conventional version, Type 53-68 - 400 kilograms, Type 65 - 557 kilograms)
   Locations: All tactical weapons stored in less than 100 storage sites
   Number Deployed: Unknown, ~500 total ASW nuclear weapons of all types
   Primary Contractor: Type 53-68 - Unknown, Type 65 - Gidropibor

Torpedoes tipped with nuclear warheads, deployed in 1958, were the first Russian naval nuclear weapons. Soviet submarines routinely carried nuclear torpedoes, as evidenced by two accidents; one in December 1972 was caused by a radiation leak from such a torpedo, while another incident off Sweden in October 1981 involved the detection of traces of Uranium-238, indicating the likely presence of nuclear weapons aboard the Whisky-class attack sub.

Compared to Western torpedoes, former-Soviet heavyweight torpedoes (HWT), such as those that carry nuclear weapons, are extremely conservative in design. Information is still vague on most older torpedoes, though information is becoming available about the newer (non-nuclear) ones, as the Russians try to export them.

The versions that were recently in use (and are now in storage) are the Type 53-68 HWT, usable from all 533 millimeter torpedo tubes, and the Type 65 HWT, usable from all 650 millimeter tubes. There were an estimated 575 total nuclear torpedo warheads in 1988.

Depth Charges

   Year Deployed: Unknown
   Dimensions: Unknown
   Weight: Unknown
   Yield: Unknown
   Locations: All tactical weapons stored in less than 100 storage sites
   Number Deployed: Unknown, ~400 weapons
   Primary Contractor: Unknown

The depth charge is the oldest anti-submarine warfare weapon, dating from World War I, and is still in use by the Russians. They are generally depth fused and launched from surface ships with RBU depth charge mortars (using compressed air). However, with nuclear depth charges, a longer-range delivery means is necessary to get the weapon farther from the launching vessel. The SS-N-15 is such a means, essentially a rocket with a depth charge attached. The other primary "standoff" means of delivery for nuclear depth charges are Bear F, Mail, and May maritime/anti-submarine aircraft, and Helix A and Hormone A antisubmarine helicopters. Russia's stockpile of nuclear depth charges is estimated at 400.

Like "generic" Russian nuclear bombs, little is known of "generic" Russian depth charges, save that they are "known to exist, no details available." With more sophisticated types of nuclear anti-submarine weapons available, the nuclear depth charge is a likely candidate for elimination, although there has been no concrete indication that this will take place.

Sources

Arms Control Today, Arms Control Association, various articles

Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, "Nuclear Notebook" www.thebulletin.org

Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, "Russia Nuclear Forces, 2001," www.ceip.org

Central Intelligence Agency, "Unclassified Report to Congress on the Acquisition of Technology Relating to Weapons of Mass Destruction and Advanced Conventional Munitions" (Feb. 1, 2002), www.cia.gov

Cordesman, Anthony, Center for Strategic and International Studies, "Weapons of Mass Destruction and the Global Nuclear Balance: A Quantitative and Arms Control Analysis" (December 2001), www.csis.org

Federation of American Scientists, www.fas.org

Jane's All the World's Aircraft, Ed. Paul Jackson, Alexandria, Va. Jane's Information Group, 1997-2002

Jane's Fighting Ships, Ed. Commondore Stephen Saunders, Alexandria, Va., Jane's Information Group, 1997-2002

Jane's Naval Weapon Systems, Ed. E.R. Hooton , Alexandria, Va., Jane's Information Group, 1997-2002

Jane's Strategic Weapon Systems, Ed. Duncan Lennox, Alexandria, Va., Jane's Information Group, 1997-2002

The Military Balance, The International Institute for Strategic Studies, London England, Oxford University Press, 1997-2002

Compiled by Ted Flaherty,
December 1996
Updated by Ben Friedman
April 2002