Article Posted on : - Sep 27, 2011

A file photo.

MOSCOW (BNS): Russia is planning to deploy the second Yars ballistic missile systems on combat duty in Central Russia by year end, Strategic Missile Forces (SMF) commander Lt. Gen. Sergei Karakayev said on Monday.

According to a news report by RIA Novosti, the Yars missile system is armed with the RS-24 intercontinental ballistic missile. It has considerably better combat and operational capabilities than the Topol-M (SS-27 Stalin).

"The adoption for service of the RS-24 missile will strengthen the combat capabilities of the Russian Strategic Missile Forces' strike group to overcome missile defence systems that will strengthen the nuclear deterrent potential of the Russian strategic nuclear forces," said Karakayev.

The Yars system is better protected from technical reconnaissance equipment of the potential enemy and their combat equipment is adapted to fulfill the tasks of missile defence.

The first regiment consisting of three battalions was fully deployed in August 2011.

The RS-24 is a new-generation intercontinental ballistic missile capable of carrying multiple warheads.