The RS-26 Rubezh is a ballistic missile with specifications that blur the line between intermediate and intercontinental ranges. It is designed to carry a warhead weighing up to 1,200 kilograms, a payload equivalent to two Iskander missiles. The missile achieves speeds of Mach 5 or higher, making it extremely difficult to intercept with existing missile defence systems like Patriot or NASAMS.
The development of the RS-26 contravenes the now-defunct Intermediate- Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, which prohibited missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,000 kilometres. The treaty’s collapse in 2019, triggered by alleged violations from both Russia and the U.S., removed restrictions on the deployment of such weapons. While the RS-26 has been considered experimental, its potential use in Ukraine could mark its debut in operational scenarios.
Propaganda or Real Threat?
Russia’s use of heavy ballistic missiles, particularly against civilian targets, has been a recurring element of its military strategy. However, the deployment of the RS-26 would signal a shift. Unlike the precision- guided Iskander missiles, the RS-26 is relatively untested and could lack accuracy, increasing the risk of collateral damage. Such an attack could cause significant destruction and potentially strike civilian infrastructure, further escalating humanitarian concerns.
Poster Comment:
Factual error corrected. Said RS-26 had 3 times the payload of an Iskander, actually twice. Said it might not be accurate. Not true of Russian missiles. Said they might be targeting civilians. Russians do not do that. They are neither Israelis nor Americans.