Decoding the Sarmat N Missiles

• Known as Satan- II in the western hemisphere, the Sarmat N missiles come with their unique features.
• The Sarmat missile reportedly has the ability to carry more than ten warheads and decoys. Its distinctive feature is its capability of launching over either of the earth’s poles with a range of 11,000 to 18,000 km.
• The missiles are expected to challenge the ground-and-satellite-based radar tracking systems, particularly of western powers like the USA. They are manoeuvrable, making them difficult to intercept and can carry smaller hypersonic boost-glide vehicles.
• The RS-28 Sarmat ICBM, with its upgraded electronic countermeasures, guidance systems and alternative warhead carrying capacity, is more lethal than the R-36M Voyevoda ICBMs ( NATO name Satan) currently in service in Russia.
• The missile can carry more than ten warheads simultaneously, enabling it to easily evade conventional Radar.
• The Sarmat N missile stands out for its use of liquid-fuelled missiles, unlike the US’s ICBM that uses solid fuel systems.
• Given its estimated speed and range, it has the potential to destroy major cities like New York and London within 6-7 minutes.

Tracing the Origins of Sarmat

• The name 'Sarmat' traces back to the nomadic tribes that resided in what is now Southern Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan. These tribes were known for their advanced riding and fighting techniques. As per historical records, the Sarmatians’ administrative skills and political acumen helped them to establish extensive dominance. By the second century, they had most of southern Russia under their control after defeating the Scythians.

Potential Impacts:

• The deployment of the Sarmat N missiles could lead to NATO countries deploying their own ICBMs in support of Ukraine.
• This development could propel the world into a dangerous arms race, potentially rendering past treaties irrelevant.

Wrapping Up: Nations and international bodies must step up to control the escalating arms race, prioritizing humanity. However, as the adage goes, “What matters is power and not appeal to justice, even God doesn’t help, only self-help works”. Thus, it is crucial for India to upgrade its ICBM capabilities to create deterrence.