Vladimir Putin has been informed that Russia has successfully tested the “Sarmat” intercontinental ballistic missile system.

Axar.az reports, citing TASS, that Strategic Missile Forces Commander Sergey Karakayev told the president the test results confirmed the missile system’s declared technical and operational characteristics, including its range, payload capacity, launch readiness, and ability to overcome missile defense systems.

He stated that the deployment of “Sarmat” launchers will significantly enhance Russia’s ground-based strategic nuclear forces and strengthen its deterrence capabilities.

According to him, the system is designed to replace the Soviet-era “Voyevoda” missile system and surpass it in combat capability.

Karakayev also noted that successful test results will allow Russia to deploy the first missile regiment equipped with “Sarmat” by the end of 2026 in the Uzhur formation in the Krasnoyarsk region.

President Putin congratulated the military on the successful test and said the missile will be put on combat duty by the end of the year. He described “Sarmat” as one of the most powerful missile systems in the world and claimed it is capable of carrying warheads with significantly greater yield compared to existing Western equivalents.

Putin also said Russia continues to modernize its nuclear forces, referring to ongoing development programs and previously deployed systems such as “Avangard” and “Kinzhal,” as well as future systems currently in development.