RT-2PM2 Topol-M
1997 - Present
The Topol-M is a Russian intercontinental ballistic missile and the first ICBM developed after the Soviet Union's dissolution. Available in both silo and road-mobile variants, it features advanced countermeasures against missile defenses.
Primary Specifications
Range
11000 km
Full strategic range coverage
Speed
Mach 20
High-speed penetration capability
Propulsion
Solid-fueled, Three-stage
Rapid deployment capability
Weight
47200 kg
Silo or mobile launcher compatible
Payload
1200 kg
Single warhead optimized payload
Primary Guidance
Inertial + GLONASS
Quick Summary
What it is?
A solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile
Who uses it?
Russian Strategic Rocket Forces
Role
Strategic nuclear deterrent
What's different?
Can maneuver during flight and deploy decoys - 800 kt single warhead with potential MIRV upgrade capability
Why it matters?
Demonstrated Russia's ability to develop advanced strategic weapons independently after the USSR collapsed.
Real-World Impact
1
Evasive Flight
Can change trajectory after launch to evade missile defense interceptors
2
Dual Deployment
Both silo-based and road-mobile versions provide flexibility and survivability
3
Rapid Response
Solid fuel allows launch within minutes without fueling
4
Foundation System
Technology base for newer Yars and Bulava missiles
Additional Features
Secondary Systems
Evasive maneuvering
Special
EMP/radiation hardened
FAQs
1. What does 'Topol' mean?
Topol means 'Poplar' (a type of tree) in Russian. Russian missiles are often named after trees or natural features.2. How many are deployed?
3. What's the difference from Yars?
4. Can it evade missile defense?
5. How fast can it launch?
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