Daily Current Affairs : 22-November-2024
In a dramatic turn of events during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Russia has reportedly used a new type of intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the RS-26 Rubezh, targeting Dnipro, Ukraine. This marks a significant escalation in the war, as ICBMs are typically viewed as strategic deterrents rather than weapons of active conflict. The use of such advanced weaponry signals a potential shift in global military dynamics.
What is the RS-26 Rubezh?
The RS-26 Rubezh is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that can carry multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRVs). This missile is designed to carry nuclear warheads or other payloads over long distances.
Key Features of the RS-26 Rubezh:
- Range: 5,800 km (classified as an ICBM under nuclear arms treaties).
- Payload: Can carry an 800 kg nuclear warhead or heavier conventional payloads.
- MIRV Capability: The missile’s MIRV capability means it can target several different locations with a single launch, making it more powerful and harder to intercept.
This missile is significant because it represents the first reported use of an ICBM in an ongoing conflict, a weapon traditionally reserved for strategic deterrence. The use of MIRVs adds another layer of complexity to the situation, as it indicates an escalation in Russia’s nuclear capabilities.
Understanding Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs)
ICBMs are long-range missiles designed to deliver nuclear weapons to targets far from their launch site. These missiles are an essential component of a country’s strategic defense, with ranges that extend well beyond 5,500 km.
Key Characteristics of ICBMs:
- Range: Typically over 5,500 km, with some capable of reaching distances up to 16,000 km.
- Speed: ICBMs can travel at speeds exceeding 20,000 km/h.
- Countries with ICBMs: Nations like Russia, the United States, China, France, India, and North Korea possess ICBMs.
India’s ICBM Program
India, too, has developed its own ICBM systems. For example:
- Agni V: A solid-fuel missile with a range of 7,000 to 10,000 km.
- Agni VI: An upcoming missile with MIRV capability, similar to the RS-26 Rubezh.
India’s missile advancements, particularly the MIRV-equipped Agni VI, place it in the same category as other global powers with advanced ICBM capabilities.
Global Implications
The reported use of the RS-26 Rubezh highlights the evolving nature of warfare, where advanced nuclear weapons are becoming more integrated into active conflicts. Such developments raise concerns about nuclear escalation and the potential consequences for global peace and security. The use of ICBMs in a conventional war could lead to unpredictable consequences, emphasizing the need for robust international agreements to prevent further escalation.
Important Points:
- RS-26 Rubezh is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) used by Russia in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.
- Key features of RS-26 Rubezh:
- Range: 5,800 km (classified as an ICBM under nuclear arms treaties).
- Payload: Can carry an 800 kg nuclear warhead or heavier conventional payloads.
- MIRV Capability: Can target multiple locations with a single launch.
- ICBMs (Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles) are long-range missiles primarily designed to deliver nuclear weapons:
- Range: Over 5,500 km, with maximum ranges up to 16,000 km.
- Speed: Exceeds 20,000 km/h.
- Countries possessing ICBMs: Russia, United States, China, France, India, United Kingdom, Israel, North Korea.
- India’s ICBM Programs:
- Agni V: Solid-fuelled missile with a range of 7,000–10,000 km.
- Agni VI: Upcoming missile with MIRV capability.
- Global significance:
- The RS-26 Rubezh represents the first-ever reported use of an ICBM in an active conflict.
- Its MIRV capability signals advanced nuclear escalation potential.
- Implications for global security:
- The use of ICBMs in conventional conflicts raises concerns about nuclear escalation and potential consequences for international peace.
- The evolving nature of warfare involves the integration of advanced nuclear weapons, posing challenges for global security agreements.
Why In News
In a significant escalation of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, Russia reportedly used a new type of intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) targeting Dnipro, Ukraine, signaling a shift toward more destructive and high-tech weapons in the conflict. This marks a dangerous turning point, as ICBMs are traditionally seen as strategic deterrents, not tools for active warfare.
MCQs about The Use of RS-26 Rubezh in the Russia-Ukraine War: A New Escalation
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What is the key feature of the RS-26 Rubezh missile used by Russia?
A. It is a liquid-fuelled missile with a range of 10,000 km
B. It has the ability to carry multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRVs)
C. It is designed solely for conventional payloads
D. It can only target a single location at a time
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What is the typical range of an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM)?
A. 1,000 to 3,000 km
B. 5,500 to 16,000 km
C. 500 to 2,000 km
D. 20,000 to 30,000 km
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Which of the following statements is true about the RS-26 Rubezh missile?
A. It is the first reported use of an ICBM in an active conflict.
B. It is only capable of carrying conventional warheads.
C. It has a range of 1,500 km and is classified as a short-range missile.
D. It is used by the United States in the Russia-Ukraine war.
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What is the significance of India’s Agni VI missile in relation to the RS-26 Rubezh?
A. The Agni VI is a supersonic missile with no nuclear capabilities.
B. The Agni VI also features MIRV capability, similar to the RS-26 Rubezh.
C. The Agni VI is designed for conventional payloads only.
D. The Agni VI has a range of only 1,500 km.
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