Anti-aircraft missile system Topol m. The most powerful nuclear missiles. Are there any disadvantages?
The relative security of humanity in recent decades has been ensured by nuclear parity between countries that possess for the most part nuclear weapons on the planet and the means of delivering it to the target. Currently these are two states - the United States of America and Russian Federation. The fragile balance is based on two main “pillars”. The American heavy carrier Trident-2 is opposed by the latest Russian Topol-M missile. Behind this simplified diagram lies a much more complex picture.
The average person is rarely interested in military equipment. According to her appearance It is difficult to judge how reliably the state’s borders are protected. Many people remember the magnificent Stalinist military parades, during which citizens were shown the inviolability of Soviet defense. Huge five-turret tanks, giant TB bombers and other impressive models turned out to be not very useful on the fronts of the war that soon began. Maybe the Topol-M complex, the photo of which makes such a strong impression, is also outdated?
Judging by the reaction of military experts from countries that consider Russia a potential adversary, this is not so. But in practice it would be better not to be convinced of this. There is little objective data about the newest rocket. All that remains is to consider what is available. Seems like a lot of information. It is known what the Topol-M mobile launcher looks like, a photo of which was published at one time by all the world’s leading media. Basic specifications They also do not constitute state secrets; on the contrary, they can serve as a warning to those who may be plotting an attack on our country.
A little history. The beginning of the atomic race
Americans atomic bomb built before anyone else in the world and did not hesitate to use it immediately, in August 1945, twice. At that time, the US Air Force not only had an aircraft capable of carrying it. It was a flying “superfortress” - the B-29 strategic bomber, the mass of which reached nine tons of combat load. At an altitude of 12 thousand meters, inaccessible to air defense systems of any country, at a speed of 600 km/h, this air giant could deliver its terrible cargo to a target almost three and a half thousand kilometers away. On the way, the B-29 crew did not have to worry about their safety. The plane was perfectly protected and equipped with all the latest achievements of science and technology: radar, powerful rapid-fire barrage cannons with telemetric control (in case someone did get close) and even some kind of on-board computer that made the necessary calculations. This way, in peace and comfort, it was possible to punish any disobedient country. But it ended quickly.
Quantity and quality
In the fifties, the leadership of the USSR placed its main bet not on long-range bombers, but on strategic intercontinental missiles, and, as time has shown, this decision was correct. The remoteness of the American continent has ceased to be a guarantee of security. During the time the US was superior Soviet Union by number nuclear warheads, but President Kennedy could not guarantee the lives of his citizens in the event of war with the USSR. According to experts, it turned out that in the event of a global conflict, America would formally win, but the number of victims could exceed half the population. Based on these data, President J.F. Kennedy curbed his warlike ardor, left Cuba alone and made other concessions. Everything that happened in the subsequent decades in the field of strategic confrontation came down to a competition not just for the ability to deliver an all-crushing blow, but also to avoid retaliation or minimize it. The question was raised not only about the number of bombs and missiles, but also about the ability to intercept them.
After the Cold War
The RT-2PM Topol missile was developed in the USSR back in the eighties. Her general concept consisted of the ability to overcome the impact of potential enemy missile defense systems mainly due to the factor of surprise. It could be launched from various points along which this mobile system carried out combat patrols. Unlike stationary launchers, the location of which was often no secret to the Americans, Topol was constantly in motion, and it was not possible to quickly calculate its possible trajectory, even taking into account the high performance of Pentagon computers. Stationary mine installations, by the way, also posed a threat to a potential aggressor, because not all of them were known, and besides, they were well protected and a lot of them were built.
The collapse of the Union, however, led to the destruction of the long-built security system based on the inevitability of a retaliatory strike. The response to new challenges was adopted in 1997 Russian army the Topol-M missile, the characteristics of which have improved significantly.
How to complicate the missile defense task
The main change, which became revolutionary in the entire world ballistic missile industry, concerned the uncertainty and ambiguity of the missile trajectory on its combat course. The operation of all missile defense systems, already created and only promising ones (at the stage of design development and fine-tuning), is based on the principle of anticipation calculation. This means that when an ICBM launch is detected based on several indirect parameters, in particular electromagnetic pulse, thermal trace or other objective data, a complex interception mechanism is triggered. With a classical trajectory, it is not difficult to calculate the position of the projectile, determining its speed and launch location, and measures can be taken in advance to destroy it at any part of the flight. It is possible to detect the launch of a Topol-M; there is not much difference between it and any other missile. But then things get more complicated.
Variable trajectory
The idea was to make it impossible, even if detected, to miscalculate the coordinates of the warhead taking into account the lead. To do this, it was necessary to change and complicate the trajectory along which the flight takes place. “Topol-M” is equipped with gas-jet rudders and additional shunting engines (their number is still unknown to the general public, but we are talking about dozens), allowing you to change direction in the active part of the trajectory, that is, during direct guidance. In this case, information about the final goal is constantly retained in the memory of the control system, and ultimately the charge will get exactly where it is required. In other words, anti-missiles fired to shoot down a ballistic projectile will miss. It is not possible to defeat the Topol-M by existing and created missile defense systems of a potential enemy.
New engines and body materials
Not only the unpredictability of the trajectory in the active area makes the strike of the new weapon irresistible, but also very high speed. "Topol-M" at different stages of the flight is driven by three main engines and very quickly gains altitude. Solid fuel is a mixture based on ordinary aluminum. Of course, the composition of the oxidizer and other details are not disclosed for obvious reasons. The step bodies are made as light as possible; they are made of composite materials (organoplastic) using the technology of continuous winding of hardening fibers of a heavy-duty polymer (“cocoon”). This decision has a double practical meaning. Firstly, the weight of the Topol-M rocket is reduced, and its acceleration characteristics are significantly improved. Secondly, the plastic shell is more difficult to detect by radar; high-frequency radiation is reflected from it worse than from a metal surface.
To reduce the likelihood of destruction of charges at the final stage of the combat course, numerous false targets are used, which are very difficult to distinguish from real ones.
Control system
Any missile defense system fights enemy missiles using a whole range of influences. The most common method of disorientation is to install powerful electromagnetic barriers, also called interference. Electronic circuits cannot withstand strong fields and fail completely or cease to function properly for some time. The Topol-M missile has a noise-resistant guidance system, but this is not the main thing. In the expected conditions of a global conflict, a potential enemy is ready to use the most effective means to destroy threatening strategic forces, including even barrage nuclear explosions in the stratosphere. Having discovered an insurmountable barrier in its path, the Topol, thanks to its ability to maneuver, will with a high degree of probability be able to bypass it and continue its deadly trajectory.
Stationary
The Topol-M missile system, regardless of whether it is mobile or stationary, is launched using a mortar method. This means that the launch is carried out vertically from a special container that serves to protect this complex technical system from accidental or combat damage. There are two deployment options: stationary and mobile. The task of placing new complexes in mines is simplified as much as possible due to the possibility of modifying existing underground structures intended for heavy ICBMs that were withdrawn from service under the terms of the SALT-2 treaty. All that remains is to fill the too-deep bottom of the shaft with an additional layer of concrete and install a restrictive ring that reduces the working diameter. It is also important that the Topol-M missile system is maximally unified with the already proven infrastructure of the strategic deterrence forces, including communications and control.
Mobile complex and its chariot
The novelty of the mobile installation, designed for firing from any point on the combat patrol route (position area), lies in the so-called incomplete hanging of the container. This technical feature assumes the ability to deploy on any soil, including soft soil. Camouflage has also been significantly improved, which makes it difficult to detect the complex by all existing reconnaissance means, including space-optical and radio-electronic.
It is necessary to dwell in detail on vehicle, designed to transport and launch the Topol-M rocket. The characteristics of this powerful machine are admired by experts. It is huge - it weighs 120 tons, but at the same time it is very maneuverable, has high maneuverability, reliability and speed. There are eight axles, respectively, sixteen wheels 1 cm high, all of them are driving. The eighteen-meter turning radius is ensured by the fact that all six (three front and three rear) axles can turn. The width of the pneumatic tires is 60 cm. The high clearance between the bottom and the road (it is almost half a meter) ensures unhindered passage not only over rough terrain, but also ford (with a bottom depth of more than a meter). The specific ground pressure is half that of any truck.
Set in motion mobile installation"Topol-M" powered by an 800-horsepower diesel turbo unit YaMZ-847. The speed on the march is up to 45 km/h, the range is at least half a thousand kilometers.
Other tricks and promising opportunities
According to the terms of the SALT-2 treaty, the number of separable individually targeted warheads is subject to a limitation. This means that it is impossible to create new missiles equipped with multiple nuclear warheads. The situation with this international treaty generally strange - back in 1979 in connection with the introduction Soviet troops to Afghanistan, it was withdrawn from the US Senate and has not yet been ratified. However, there was no refusal from the American government to comply with its conditions. In general, it is observed by both sides, although it has not received official status even today.
Some violations, however, took place, and mutual ones. The US insisted on reducing total number carriers up to 2400, which corresponded to their geopolitical interests, since they had more multi-charge missiles. In addition, it is also important that American nuclear forces are closer to Russian borders, and their flight time is much shorter. All this prompted the country's leadership to look for ways to improve its safety indicators without violating the conditions of SALT 2. The Topol-M missile, the characteristics of which formally and without taking into account its features correspond to the parameters of the RT-2P, was called a modification of the latter. The Americans, taking advantage of the gaps in the treaty, placed cruise missiles on strategic bombers and practically do not comply with quantitative restrictions on carriers with multiple independently targetable warheads.
These circumstances were taken into account when creating the Topol-M rocket. The radius of destruction is ten thousand kilometers, that is, a quarter of the equator. This is quite enough to consider it intercontinental. Currently it is equipped with a monobloc charge, but the weight fighting compartment one ton makes it possible to change the warhead to a multiple warhead in a fairly short time.
Are there any disadvantages?
Strategic missile system "Topol-M", like any other Combat vehicles, is not an ideal weapon. The reason for the recognition of some shortcomings was, paradoxically, the discussion that unfolded during the discussion of the future prospects of the SALT-2 treaty. In some conditions, you can vaguely hint at your own omnipotence, but in other circumstances, it is more advantageous, on the contrary, to point out that we are not as terrible as we seem. This happened with the Topol-M complex. The speed of the rocket (up to 7 km/sec), it turns out, is not high enough to be completely confident in its invulnerability. Security in barrage stratospheric conditions nuclear explosion also leaves much to be desired, especially from such a terrible damaging factor as However, very little can withstand it.
"Topol-M", the destruction radius of which allows you to destroy targets on other continents, is currently the only Russian strategic missile, mass-produced. That is why it is the mainstay of the forces of containment.
Apparently, this lack of alternative is a temporary phenomenon; other models will appear that will absorb the advantages of “Topol” and leave its shortcomings in the past. Although it’s unlikely to work out completely without any shortcomings. In the meantime, this type of ballistic missile carries the main burden in defense. Be that as it may, recent history shows that those who cannot defend themselves pay dearly for their own weakness.
It's actually not all that bad. Readiness to repel aggression can only be judged based on relative values. Nothing is absolute in matters of defense; each type of weapon can be improved endlessly. The main thing is that his fighting qualities allow him to effectively resist enemy forces.
Location: 60th Taman Order October revolution Red Banner Missile Division
Complex RT-2PM2 "Topol-M"(code RS-12M2, according to NATO classification - SS-27 Sickle "Sickle") - a Russian strategic missile system with an intercontinental ballistic missile, developed in the late 1980s - early 1990s on the basis of the RT-2PM "Topol" complex .
The first intercontinental ballistic missile developed in Russia after the collapse of the USSR. Adopted into service in 1997. The lead developer of the missile system is the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering (MIT).
Rocket of the Topol-M complex is solid fuel, three-stage. The maximum range is 11,000 km. Carries one thermonuclear warhead with a power of 550 kt. The missile is based both in silo launchers (silos) and on mobile launchers. The silo-based version was put into service in 2000.
Designed for application tasks nuclear strike across enemy territory in the face of counteraction from existing and future missile defense systems, with multiple nuclear impacts on a positional area, when a positional area is blocked by high-altitude nuclear explosions. It is used as part of the 15PO65 silo-based and 15P165 mobile-based complexes.
Stationary complex "Topol-M" includes 10 intercontinental ballistic missiles mounted in silo launchers, as well as command post.
Main characteristics:
Number of steps - 3
Length (with warhead) - 22.55 m
Length (without warhead) - 17.5 m
Diameter - 1.81 m
Launch weight - 46.5 t
Throwing weight 1.2 t
Type of fuel - solid mixed
Maximum range— 11000 km
Head type - monoblock, nuclear, detachable
Number of combat units - 1 + about 20 dummies
Charge power - 550 Kt
Control system - autonomous, inertial based on BTsVK
Method of basing - mine and mobile
Mobile complex "Topol-M" is one missile placed in a high-strength fiberglass transport and launch container (TPK), mounted on an eight-axle chassis MZKT-79221 high cross-country ability and structurally practically no different from the mine version. The weight of the launcher is 120 tons. Six pairs of eight wheels are swivel, providing a turning radius of 18 meters.
The ground pressure of the installation is half that of a conventional truck. Engine V-shaped 12-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine YaMZ-847 with a power of 800 hp. The depth of the ford is up to 1.1 meters.
When creating systems and units of the mobile Topol-M, a number of fundamentally new technologies were used technical solutions compared to the Topol complex. Thus, the partial suspension system makes it possible to deploy the Topol-M launcher even on soft soils. The maneuverability and maneuverability of the installation have been improved, which increases its survivability.
"Topol-M" is capable of launching from any point in the positional area, and also has improved means of camouflage, both against optical and other reconnaissance means (including by reducing the infrared component of the complex's unmasking field, as well as the use of special coatings that reduce radar signature).
Intercontinental missileconsists of three stages with solid propellant propulsion engines. Aluminum is used as fuel, ammonium perchlorate acts as an oxidizing agent. The step bodies are made of composites. All three stages are equipped with a rotating nozzle to deflect the thrust vector (there are no lattice aerodynamic rudders).
Control system- inertial, based on the on-board central heating system and a gyro-stabilized platform. The complex of high-speed command gyroscopic devices has improved accuracy characteristics. The new BTsVK has increased productivity and resistance to the damaging factors of a nuclear explosion. Aiming is ensured through the implementation of autonomous determination of the azimuth of the control element installed on a gyro-stabilized platform using ground complex command instruments located on the TPK. Increased combat readiness, accuracy and continuous operation life of on-board equipment are ensured.
Launch method - mortar for both options. The rocket's sustaining solid-propellant engine allows it to gain speed much faster than previous types of rockets of a similar class created in Russia and the Soviet Union. This makes it much more difficult for missile defense systems to intercept it during the active phase of the flight.
The missile is equipped with a detachable warhead with one thermonuclear warhead with a capacity of 550 kt of TNT equivalent. The warhead is also equipped with a set of means to overcome missile defense. The complex of means for overcoming missile defense consists of passive and active decoys, as well as means of distorting the characteristics of the warhead. A few dozens auxiliary engines corrections, instruments and control mechanisms allow the warhead to maneuver along the trajectory, making it difficult to intercept it at the final section of the trajectory.
False targets indistinguishable from warheads in all ranges electromagnetic radiation(optical, laser, infrared, radar). False targets make it possible to simulate the characteristics of warheads according to almost all selection criteria in the extra-atmospheric, transitional and significant part of the atmospheric section of the descending branch of the flight trajectory of missile warheads, and are resistant to damaging factors nuclear explosion and radiation from a super-powerful nuclear-pumped laser. For the first time, decoys have been designed that can withstand super-resolution radars.
In connection with the termination of the START-2 treaty, which prohibited the creation of multi-charge intercontinental ballistic missiles, the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering is working on equipping Topol-M with multiple independently targetable warheads. Perhaps the result of this work is the RS-24 Yars. A mobile version of this complex, placed on the chassis of an eight-axle tractor MZKT-79221, is being tested.
The high resistance of the 15Zh65 missile to the effects of potential enemy missile defense systems is achieved due to:
- Reducing the time and length of the active section through extremely rapid acceleration of the rocket. Acceleration time to final speed (over 7 km/s) is less than 3 minutes.
- The missile’s ability to maneuver in the active section, complicating the enemy’s solution to the interception task, as well as to perform a program maneuver when passing through the cloud of a nuclear explosion
- Protective coating of the housing new development, providing comprehensive protection from the damaging factors of a nuclear explosion and weapons based on new physical principles.
- A complex for overcoming missile defense, including passive and active decoys and means of distorting the characteristics of the warhead. LCs are indistinguishable from warheads in all ranges of electromagnetic radiation (optical, laser, infrared, radar), they allow simulating the characteristics of warheads according to almost all selection criteria in the extra-atmospheric, transitional and significant part of the atmospheric section of the descending branch of the flight path of missile warheads, up to altitudes 2 - 5 km; are resistant to the damaging factors of a nuclear explosion and radiation from a super-powerful nuclear-pumped laser, etc. For the first time, LCs have been designed that can withstand super-resolution radars. Means for distorting the characteristics of the warhead consist of a radio-absorbing (combined with heat-shielding) coating of the warhead, active jammers, etc. The radar signature of the warhead is reduced by several orders of magnitude, the ESR is 0.0001 sq.m. Its detection range has been reduced to 100 - 200 km. The optical and IR visibility of the BB is extremely reduced due to the effective cooling of the BB surface in the transatmospheric section and the reduction in the luminosity of the BB's wake in the atmospheric section, achieved incl. due to the injection of special liquid products into the trace area that reduce the intensity of radiation. As a result measures taken it is ensured that a monoblock warhead can overcome a promising multi-echelon missile defense system with space-based elements with a probability of 0.93 - 0.94. The high- and sub-atmospheric missile defense section is overcome with a probability of 0.99, the atmospheric - with a probability of 0.93 - 0.95.
The 15Zh65 rocket is equipped with a thermonuclear monoblock warhead with a power of 0.55 MGt. Tests of ICBMs with MIRVs (from 3 to 6 multiple warheads with a capacity of 150 kt.) have been carried out. In the future, it is planned to equip the missile with a maneuvering warhead (tests of which were also successfully carried out in 2005 and continue), and therefore the possibility of intercepting warheads, according to Russian specialists will be practically reduced to zero.
The probable circular deviation is no more than 200 m, which allows the half-megaton power warhead to confidently hit highly protected point targets (in particular, command posts and silos). Due to the limited throw weight, which limits the power of the nuclear warhead, the Topol-M missile, unlike the 15A18 Voevoda missile (the power of the monoblock warhead of which was 20-25 MGt), has limitations in carrying out destructive effects on a large area target.
The mobile-based 15P165 complex has unique initial survivability characteristics and is capable of operating covertly and autonomously for a long period of time. The patrol area of the complex is 250,000 sq. km.
The Topol-M missile is unified with the " Mace» sea-based created to arm the Project 955 SSBN. The Bulava’s competitor is the R-29RMU2 liquid-fueled ICBM “ Sineva" It is significantly superior to the Bulava (like all other ICBMs) in terms of energy and mass sophistication, but is inferior in terms of an important criterion for Russian sea-based missiles - survival in the active site due to its lower acceleration speed and greater vulnerability from laser weapons, characteristic liquid rockets compared to solid fuels. However, the Bulava rocket, with a launch weight of about 37 tons, is significantly inferior in striking power to existing heavier solid-fuel rockets, including the Trident-2 rocket with a launch weight of 59 tons. (Bulava warhead - 6x150 kt, Trident-2 (theoretically) - 8x475 kt). The project to equip the naval component of Russia's nuclear forces with SSBNs with light ballistic missiles "Bulava" is criticized by experts who point to the need to arm domestic SSBNs with high-tech solid-fuel SLBM R-39UTTH, the testing of which was curtailed in the 90s. and which, if put into service, would have no analogues in the world among SLBMs in terms of striking power and flight performance.
Intercontinental ballistic missiles, which include the Topol models, are designed to destroy enemy ground and sea launchers of ICBMs, government and armed forces control centers, strategic military and economic facilities, large land and sea formations of the enemy's armed forces.
In total, there are three Topol models with modifications - together, in terms of the number of missiles and warheads placed on them, they form the basis of the ground component of the Russian nuclear forces. “Topol” is not missiles themselves, but strategic missile systems in mobile (mobile ground) and silo-based versions, using three-stage solid-fuel ICBMs (based on RT-2PM), which were developed by the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering - in fact, the only one currently in Russian ICBM developer:
1) the original “Topol” is a mobile ground-based strategic missile system using the RS-12M monoblock ICBM (SS-25 Sickle, or “Sickle”, in NATO classification). First flight test in February 1983, adopted for service in 1985. Warhead power 550 kt, firing range 10,500 km, missile launch weight 45 tons. The launcher is mounted on the basis of a seven-axle chassis of a MAZ heavy-duty vehicle. In 1998, 369 Topol complexes were in service. At the beginning of 2017, 36 mobile systems remained on combat duty in the Barnaul area. The number of Topols is decreasing due to the expiration of their service life. By 2021, “Topol” must be completely withdrawn from service and destroyed, which is being carried out step by step.
2) “Topol-M” (RS-12M2, SS-27) - an analogue of “Topol”, however, with significantly higher characteristics in a number of indicators and new capabilities, including:
The ICBM itself is given the ability to maneuver during the active phase of the flight;
the total flight time to the target has been significantly reduced by increasing the rocket's acceleration speed and the warhead's flight speed;
the missile is equipped with a complex of missile defense breakthrough means with active and passive decoys and means of distorting the characteristics of the warhead;
secured high level resistance to the damaging factors of a nuclear explosion, which increased the survivability of the missile;
the infrared “footprint” of the mobile complex has been reduced;
increased cross-country ability and maneuverability of the complex, including on soft ground;
The radar signature of the complex has been reduced due to special coatings on its surfaces.
Topol-M is the first ICBM that the Russian Federation began to develop. First flight test in December 1994. The modernized complex was put into service in April 2000. Warhead power 550 kt, firing range 11,000 km, launch weight 47.1 tons. There are 60 missiles in the silos, and 18 mobile complexes. The deployment of additional systems has been discontinued in favor of the Yars.
3) a modification of the Topol-M complex is the Yars complex (RS-24, SS-29). Distinctive feature missiles - multiple independently targetable warheads (MIRV), capable of carrying 4 maneuvering warheads, which further increased the possibility of breaking through the missile defense of the intended enemy. First flight test in May 2007, on combat duty since the summer of 2010. Warhead power 150-250 depending on their number, firing range 12,000 km, launch weight 49.6 tons. At the beginning of 2017, there were 84 Yars mobile complexes on combat duty. and 12 missiles in silo launchers, and a total of 384 warheads, or 40% of the warheads of ground-based nuclear forces.
To be honest, I haven’t heard that Yuzhmash (you mean it?) has anything to do with Topol. RT-2PM was developed by MIT on the basis of RT-2, which was previously created by Korolev OKB-1. There was fierce competition between the missile design bureaus, the general designers hated each other, there were set-ups and there was a desperate behind-the-scenes struggle for the right to make new rocket. Therefore, I doubt that they would attract a competitor for a contract.
Ukrainian enterprises could participate at the production stage in separate units. After all, not only one missile was created, but a whole complex, which included both a tractor and the construction/reconstruction of a silo launcher. There, hundreds of enterprises took part in this matter.
Answer
Regarding "Topol", it seems that you are right. Yuzhmash did not participate. From Ukraine - only the Kiev Arsenal (and, naturally, not in the development of a rocket as such).
The following structures were involved in the development and production of combat and training equipment of the Topol complexes:
Missile targeting system - Central Design Bureau "Arsenal" (development) and PA "Plant "Arsenal", Kyiv, Ukrainian SSR (production);
As for Topol-M - together with Yuzhnoye Design Bureau. But this is the same Dnepropetrovsk (now Dnieper).
This development work was called “Universal”, the complex being developed was designated RT-2PM2. The development of the complex was carried out jointly by the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering and the Dnepropetrovsk Yuzhnoye Design Bureau.
In March 1992, it was decided to develop the Topol-M complex based on developments under the Universal program (in April, Yuzhnoye ceased its participation in work on the complex).
Answer
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10/13/2016 at 18:10 · Pavlofox · 42 240
The fastest rockets in the world
Presented to the attention of readers fastest rockets in the world throughout the history of creation.
10. R-12U | Speed 3.8 km/s
The fastest medium-range ballistic missile with maximum speed 3.8 km per second opens the ranking of the fastest rockets in the world. The R-12U was a modified version of the R-12. The rocket differed from the prototype in the absence of an intermediate bottom in the oxidizer tank and some minor design changes - there are no wind loads in the shaft, which made it possible to lighten the tanks and dry compartments of the rocket and eliminate the need for stabilizers. Since 1976, the R-12 and R-12U missiles began to be removed from service and replaced with Pioneer mobile ground systems. They were withdrawn from service in June 1989, and between May 21, 1990, 149 missiles were destroyed at the Lesnaya base in Belarus.
9. SM-65 Atlas | Speed 5.8 km/s
One of the fastest American launch vehicles with a maximum speed of 5.8 km per second. It is the first developed intercontinental ballistic missile adopted by the United States. Developed as part of the MX-1593 program since 1951. Formed the basis nuclear arsenal US Air Force in 1959-1964, but then was quickly withdrawn from service due to the advent of the more advanced Minuteman missile. It served as the basis for the creation of the Atlas family of space launch vehicles, which have been in operation since 1959 to this day.
8. UGM-133A Trident II | Speed 6 km/s
UGM-133 A Trident II- American three-stage ballistic missile, one of the fastest in the world. Its maximum speed is 6 km per second. “Trident-2” has been developed since 1977 in parallel with the lighter “Trident-1”. Adopted into service in 1990. Launch weight - 59 tons. Max. throw weight - 2.8 tons with a launch range of 7800 km. The maximum flight range with a reduced number of warheads is 11,300 km.
7. RSM 56 Mace | Speed 6 km/s
One of the fastest solid-propellant ballistic missiles in the world, in service with Russia. Has a minimum destruction radius of 8000 km, approximate speed 6 km/s. The rocket has been developed since 1998 by the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering, which developed it in 1989-1997. rocket ground-based"Topol M". To date, 24 test launches of the Bulava have been carried out, fifteen of them were considered successful (during the first launch, a mass-dimensional prototype of the rocket was launched), two (the seventh and eighth) were partially successful. The last test launch of the rocket took place on September 27, 2016.
6. Minuteman LGM-30G | Speed 6.7 km/s
Minuteman LGM-30 G- one of the fastest land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles in the world. Its speed is 6.7 km per second. The LGM-30G Minuteman III has an estimated flight range of 6,000 kilometers to 10,000 kilometers, depending on the type of warhead. Minuteman 3 has been in US service from 1970 to the present day. It is the only silo-based missile in the United States. The first launch of the rocket took place in February 1961, modifications II and III were launched in 1964 and 1968, respectively. The rocket weighs about 34,473 kilograms and is equipped with three solid propellant engines. It is planned that the missile will be in service until 2020.
5. 53T6 “Cupid” | Speed 7 km/s
The fastest anti-missile missile in the world, designed to destroy highly maneuverable targets and high-altitude hypersonic missiles. Tests of the 53T6 series of the Amur complex began in 1989. Its speed is 5 km per second. The rocket is a 12-meter pointed cone with no protruding parts. Its body is made of high-strength steel using composite winding. The design of the rocket allows it to withstand large overloads. The interceptor launches with 100-fold acceleration and is capable of intercepting targets flying at speeds of up to 7 km per second.
4. “Satan” SS-18 (R-36M) | Speed 7.3 km/s
The most powerful and fastest nuclear missile in the world with a speed of 7.3 km per second. It is intended, first of all, to destroy the most fortified command posts, ballistic missile silos and air bases. The nuclear explosives of one missile can destroy Big city, a very large part of the USA. Hit accuracy is about 200-250 meters. The missile is housed in the world's strongest silos. The SS-18 carries 16 platforms, one of which is loaded with decoys. When entering a high orbit, all “Satan” heads go “in a cloud” of false targets and are practically not identified by radars.”
3. DongFeng 5A | Speed 7.9 km/s
The intercontinental ballistic missile (DF-5A) with a maximum speed of 7.9 km per second opens the top three fastest in the world. The Chinese DF-5 ICBM entered service in 1981. It can carry a huge 5 MT warhead and has a range of over 12,000 km. The DF-5 has a deflection of approximately 1 km, which means that the missile has one purpose - to destroy cities. The warhead's size, deflection and the fact that it only takes an hour to fully prepare for launch all mean that the DF-5 is a punitive weapon, designed to punish any would-be attackers. The 5A version has increased range, improved 300m deflection and the ability to carry multiple warheads.
2. R-7 | Speed 7.9 km/s
R-7- Soviet, the first intercontinental ballistic missile, one of the fastest in the world. Its top speed is 7.9 km per second. The development and production of the first copies of the rocket was carried out in 1956-1957 by the OKB-1 enterprise near Moscow. After successful launches, it was used in 1957 to launch the world's first artificial satellites Earth. Since then, launch vehicles of the R-7 family have been actively used to launch spacecraft for various purposes, and since 1961, these launch vehicles have been widely used in manned astronautics. Based on the R-7, a whole family of launch vehicles was created. From 1957 to 2000, more than 1,800 launch vehicles based on the R-7 were launched, of which more than 97% were successful.
1. RT-2PM2 “Topol-M” | Speed 7.9 km/s
RT-2PM2 "Topol-M" (15Zh65)- the fastest intercontinental ballistic missile in the world with a maximum speed of 7.9 km per second. Maximum range - 11,000 km. Carries one thermonuclear warhead with a power of 550 kt. The silo-based version was put into service in 2000. The launch method is mortar. The rocket's sustaining solid-propellant engine allows it to gain speed much faster than previous types of rockets of a similar class created in Russia and the Soviet Union. This makes it much more difficult for missile defense systems to intercept it during the active phase of the flight.
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RT-2PM2 “Topol-M” (Strategic Missile Forces AAM Index - 15P165 (mine) and 15P155 (mobile), according to the START Treaty - RS-12M2, according to NATO classification - SS-27 Sickle B, translated - Serp) - Russian missile system strategic purpose with ICBM 15Zh65 (15Zh55 - PGRK), developed in the late 1980s - early 1990s on the basis of the RT-2PM Topol complex. The first ICBM developed in Russia after the collapse of the USSR.
RT-2PM2 "Topol-M" - video of rocket launch
The 15Zh65 (15Zh55) rocket is three-stage, solid fuel. Maximum range - 11,000 km. Carries one thermonuclear warhead with a power of 550 kt. The silo-based version was put into service in 2000. In the next decade, Topol-M was to become the basis of weapons Missile Forces strategic purpose.
In 2011, the Russian Ministry of Defense abandoned further purchases of Topol-M missile systems in favor of the further deployment of RS-24 Yars ICBMs with MIRVs, although the Topol-M silo launchers of the last, sixth regiment of the 60th 1st missile division was planned to be completed in 2012.
Development of Topol-M
Work on the creation of a new complex began in the mid-1980s. The resolution of the Military-Industrial Commission of September 9, 1989 ordered the creation of two missile systems (stationary and mobile) and a universal solid-fuel three-stage intercontinental ballistic missile for them. This development work was called “Universal”, the complex being developed was designated RT-2PM2. The development of the complex was carried out jointly by the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering and the Dnepropetrovsk Yuzhnoye Design Bureau.
The missile was supposed to be unified for both types of complexes, but the original project assumed a difference in the warhead breeding system. The combat stage for the silo-based missile was to be equipped with a liquid rocket engine using the promising PRONIT monopropellant. For mobile vehicles, MIT developed a solid fuel propulsion system. There were also differences in the transport and launch container. For the mobile complex it had to be made of fiberglass. For a stationary one - made of metal, with a number of ground equipment systems mounted on it. Therefore, the rocket for the mobile complex received the index 15Zh55, and for the stationary complex - 15Zh65.
In March 1992, it was decided to develop the Topol-M complex based on developments under the Universal program (in April, Yuzhnoye ceased its participation in work on the complex). By decree of Boris Yeltsin of February 27, 1993, MIT became the lead enterprise for the development of Topol-M. It was decided to develop a unified missile with only one variant of combat equipment - with a solid fuel combat stage propulsion system. The control system was developed at the Automation and Instrumentation Research and Production Center, the combat unit was developed at the Sarov VNIIEF.
Testing of the rocket began in 1994. The first launch was carried out from a silo launcher at the Plesetsk cosmodrome on December 20, 1994. In 1997, after four successful launches, it began mass production these missiles. The act on the adoption of the Topol-M intercontinental ballistic missile into service by the Strategic Missile Forces of the Russian Federation was approved by the State Commission on April 28, 2000, and the Decree of the President of the Russian Federation on the adoption of the DBK into service was signed by Vladimir Putin in the summer of 2000, after which the mobile ground-based missile system entered flight tests (PGRK) based on the eight-axle chassis MZKT-79221. The first launch from a mobile launcher was carried out on September 27, 2000.
The complex is produced by JSC Votkinsk Plant and Central Design Bureau Titan.
Placement Topol-M
The placement of the first missiles in modified silos used for UR-100N missiles (15A30, RS-18, SS-19 Stiletto) began in 1997.
On December 25, 1997, the first two 15Zh65 missiles (launch minimum) of the first regiment in the Strategic Missile Forces armed with the 15P065-35 missile system - the 104th Missile Regiment - were delivered to experimental combat duty in the 60th Missile Division (Tatishchevo township). And on December 30, 1998, the 104th Missile Regiment (commander - Lieutenant Colonel Yu. S. Petrovsky) took up combat duty with a full complement of 10 silo launchers with silo-based Topol-M ICBMs. Four more regiments with silo-based Topol-M ICBMs entered combat duty on December 10, 1999, December 26, 2000 (re-equipment from 15P060), December 21, 2003 and December 9, 2005.
The process of rearmament to a mobile-based complex began on November 21, 2005 in the 54th Guards Missile Division (Teykovo), when two divisions and a mobile command post (PKP) of the 321st Missile Regiment (321 rp) were decommissioned. A year later, in November 2006, 321 rp went on experimental combat duty as part of one division (3 launchers) and the PKP of the missile regiment at the Topol-M complex. The 1st missile division and PKP 321 rp went on combat duty on December 10, 2006 at 15:00. At the same time, it became known that President Vladimir Putin had signed a new state weapons program until 2015, which provided for the purchase of 69 Topol-M ICBMs.
In 2008, Nikolai Solovtsov announced the beginning in the near future of equipping Topol-M missiles with multiple warheads (MRV). Equipping Topol-M with MIRVs will be the most important way to maintain nuclear potential Russia. Topol-M with MIRVs began entering service in 2010.
In April 2009, the commander of the Strategic Missile Forces, Nikolai Solovtsov, announced that the production of Topol-M mobile ground-based missile systems would be stopped, and more advanced systems would be supplied to the Strategic Missile Forces.
The 54th Missile Division's location continued to be modernized as of 2010. As of the end of 2012, there were 60 silo-based and 18 mobile-based Topol-M missiles on combat duty. All silo-based missiles are on combat duty in the Taman Missile Division (Svetly, Saratov Region).
The RT-2PM2 stationary complex includes 10 15Zh65 intercontinental ballistic missiles mounted in silo launchers 15P765-35 (converted silo launchers 15P735 and 15P718 of 15A35 and 15A18M missiles) or 15P765-60 (converted silo launchers of 15Zh60 missiles), as well as a command post 15B222.
Autonomous launcher 15U175 mobile complex consists of one 15Zh55 missile, placed in a high-strength fiberglass TPK, mounted on an eight-axle MZKT-79221 chassis.
The 15Zh65 (15Zh55) rocket consists of three stages with solid propellant propulsion engines. Marching steps are made of composites using cocoon-type winding. All three stages are equipped with a rotating nozzle to deflect the thrust vector (there are no lattice aerodynamic rudders). The first stage has a thrust of 100 tons, a mass of 26 tons, of which the mass of the stage is 3 tons, a length of 8.5 m, and an operating time of 60 seconds. The second stage has a thrust of 50 tons, a mass of 13 tons, of which 1.5 tons is the stage, length is 6 m, the stage operating time is 64 s. The third stage has a thrust of 25t, a mass of 6t, of which 1t is the stage, length 3.1 m, operating time 56s.
The launch method is mortar for both options. The rocket's sustaining solid-propellant engine allows it to gain speed much faster than previous types of rockets of a similar class created in Russia and the Soviet Union. This makes it much more difficult for missile defense systems to intercept it during the active phase of the flight.
The missile is equipped with a detachable warhead with one thermonuclear warhead with a capacity of 550 kt of TNT equivalent. The warhead is also equipped with a set of means to overcome missile defense. The missile defense system consists of passive and active decoys, as well as means of distorting the characteristics of the warhead. Several dozen auxiliary correction engines, instruments and control mechanisms allow the warhead to maneuver along the trajectory, making it difficult to intercept it at the final part of the trajectory. Some sources claim that LCs are indistinguishable from warheads in all ranges of electromagnetic radiation (optical, infrared, radar).
In connection with the termination of the START-2 treaty, which prohibited the creation of multi-charge intercontinental ballistic missiles, MIT carried out work to equip Topol-M with multiple independently targetable warheads. Perhaps the result of this work is the RS-24 Yars.
Engineering support and camouflage vehicles.
In 2013, the first 12 vehicles entered service with the Topol-M mobile missile systems (of which 9 were delivered to Teikovskaya missile division) engineering support and camouflage (MIOM). The machines provide camouflage (covering) of traces of mobile combat missile systems that are on duty, as well as the creation of high-contrast traces to false combat positions that are clearly visible from satellites.
Tests Topol-M
Flight tests of the silo-based version of the missile were carried out in the period from 1994 to 2000, and with their completion, tests of the mobile version of the complex were carried out in the period 2000-2004.
Testing of combat equipment
Despite the completion of testing of the missile system and the placement of serial equipment on combat duty, work to improve the complex continued in the direction of developing combat equipment (warheads), while the modified Topol complex missile was used as a carrier, as follows:
November 1, 2005 from the Kapustin Yar training ground in Astrakhan region The RT-2PM Topol missile was successfully launched as part of testing elements of new combat equipment - a single warhead, a number of newly developed elements of a complex of means to overcome missile defense and a launch stage, on which up to six warheads can be mounted, while the launch stage is unified for installations on sea-based (Bulava) and ground-based (Topol-M) ICBMs.
Flight testing of the new warhead on a standard missile of the RT-2PM complex was combined with tests in the interests of extending the warranty service life of the Topol. For the first time in Russian practice, the launch was carried out not from the Plesetsk cosmodrome at the Kura test site in Kamchatka, but from the Kapustin Yar test site at the 10th Sary-Shagan test site located in Kazakhstan (Priozersk region). This was done due to the fact that the radar support of the Kura test site does not allow recording the maneuvers performed by the warheads after they are separated from the ICBMs. In addition, these maneuvers are monitored by American measuring instruments located in Alaska. Flight parameters from Kapustin Yar to Sary-Shagan are maintained exclusively by Russian control means.
Performance characteristics of the RT-2PM2 "Topol-M" complex
Number of steps......................3
Length (with warhead)....................22.55 m
Length (without warhead)....................17.5 m
Diameter.........................1.81 m
Launch weight......46.5 t
Throwing weight......................1.2 t
Type of fuel......................solid mixed
Maximum range......................11000 km
Warhead type......................monoblock, thermonuclear, detachable
Number of combat units.........................1 (+ ~20 decoys)
Charge power.........................0.55 Mt
Control system......................autonomous, inertial based on BCVC
Method of basing......................mine and mobile
Launch history
Status........active
Launch locations.........................1 GIK "Plesetsk",
Number of launches.........................16 (successful - 15; unsuccessful - 1)
Adopted into service......................1997
First launch.........................December 20, 1994
Photo Topol-M
