July 23, 2010 marks 25 years since the Topol ground-based mobile intercontinental missiles were put on combat duty.
RT-2PM "Topol" (index of the Main Missile and Artillery Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation (GRAU) - 15Zh58, START code RS-12M, according to NATO classification - "Sickle", SS-25 "Sickle") - a strategic mobile complex with a three-stage solid fuel intercontinental ballistic missile RT-2PM, the first Soviet mobile system with an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).
The development of a project for a strategic mobile complex with a three-stage intercontinental ballistic missile suitable for placement on a self-propelled vehicle chassis (based on the RT-2P solid-fuel ICBM) was started at the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering under the leadership of Alexander Nadiradze in 1975. The government decree on the development of the complex was issued on July 19, 1977. After Nadiradze's death, work was continued under the leadership of Boris Lagutin.
The mobile complex was supposed to be a response to increasing the accuracy of American ICBMs. It was necessary to create a missile that was achieved not by building reliable shelters, but by creating vague ideas among the enemy about the location of the missile.
The conditions for modernization were strictly limited by the provisions of the SALT-2 Treaty, which determined a modest improvement in the basic combat characteristics of the missile. The first test launch of the missile, designated RT-2PM, took place at the Plesetsk test site on February 8, 1983. The launch was carried out from a converted RT-2P stationary missile silo.
By the end of autumn 1983, an experimental series of new missiles was built. On December 23, 1983, flight development tests began at the Plesetsk training ground. During the entire period of their implementation, only one launch was unsuccessful. In general, the rocket showed high reliability. The combat units of the entire combat missile system (BMK) were also tested there. In December 1984, the main series of tests was completed and a decision was made to begin mass production of the complexes. However, the full testing of the mobile complex, called “Topol”, ended only in December 1988.
Without waiting for the full completion of the joint testing program, in order to gain experience in operating the new complex in military units, on July 23, 1985, near the city of Yoshkar-Ola, the first regiment of mobile Topols was deployed at the site of the deployment of RT-2P missiles.
The RT-2PM missile is designed according to a design with three sustainer and combat stages. To ensure high energy-mass perfection and increase the firing range, a new high-density fuel with a specific impulse increased by several units was used in all sustainer stages compared to the fillers of previously created engines, and the housings of the upper stages were for the first time made of continuous winding from organoplastic according to the “cocoon” pattern ".
The first stage of the rocket consists of a solid propellant rocket motor (solid propellant rocket motor) and a tail section. The mass of the fully equipped stage is 27.8 tons. Its length is 8.1 m and its diameter is 1.8 m. The first stage propulsion solid propellant rocket engine has one fixed, centrally located nozzle. The tail section is cylindrical in shape, on the outer surface of which aerodynamic control surfaces and stabilizers are located.
The rocket flight control in the first stage operation area is carried out using rotary gas-jet and aerodynamic rudders.
The second stage consists of a conical-shaped connecting compartment and a sustainer solid propellant rocket engine. The case diameter is 1.55 m.
The third stage includes connecting and transition sections of a conical shape and a sustainer solid propellant rocket engine. Case diameter - 1.34 m.
The head of the rocket consists of one warhead (nuclear) and a compartment with a propulsion system and control system.
The "Topol" control system is of an inertial type, built using an on-board computer, microcircuits with a high degree of integration, a new set of command devices with float sensitive elements. The control system's computer complex makes it possible to implement autonomous combat use self-propelled launcher.
The control system provides missile flight control, routine maintenance on the missile and launcher, pre-launch preparation and launch of the missile, as well as solving other problems.
During operation, the RT-2PM missile is located in a transport and launch container located on a mobile launcher. The container is 22.3 m long and 2.0 m in diameter.
The launcher is mounted on the basis of a seven-axle chassis of a MAZ vehicle and is equipped with units and systems that ensure transportation, maintenance of combat readiness at the established level, preparation and launch of the rocket.
A missile can be launched both when the launcher is located in a stationary shelter with a retractable roof, and from unequipped positions, if the terrain allows it. To launch a rocket, the launcher is hung on jacks and leveled. The rocket is launched after the container is lifted into a vertical position using a powder pressure accumulator placed in the transport and launch container ("mortar launch").
After shooting off the protective cap of the container, the rocket is ejected from it by powder starting engines several meters upward, where the first-stage propulsion engine is turned on.
The maximum firing range is 10,500 km. Rocket length - 21.5 m. Launch weight 45.1 tons. Weight of the warhead - 1 ton. Nuclear warhead power - 0.55 Mt. Firing accuracy (maximum deviation) - 0.9 km. The combat patrol area of the complex is 125 thousand square meters. km.
The mass of the launcher with the missile is about 100 tons. Despite this, the complex has good mobility and maneuverability.
Combat readiness (time to prepare for launch) from the moment the order was received until the missile was launched was brought to two minutes.
The missile system also includes a mobile command post combat control on a four-axle MAZ-543M chassis. To control the fire, mobile command posts "Granit" and "Barrier" were used, armed with a missile that had a radio transmitter instead of a combat load. After the rocket was launched, he duplicated the launch commands for launchers located at remote positions.
Serial production of the RT-2PM missile began in 1985 at a plant in Votkinsk (Udmurtia), and its mobile launcher was manufactured at the Volgograd Barrikady plant.
On December 1, 1988, the new missile system was officially adopted by the Missile Forces strategic purpose(Strategic Missile Forces). In the same year, the full-scale deployment of missile regiments with the Topol complex began and the simultaneous removal of obsolete ICBMs from combat duty. By mid-1991, 288 missiles of this type had been deployed.
The Topol missile divisions were deployed near the cities of Barnaul, Verkhnyaya Salda (Nizhny Tagil), Vypolzovo (Bologoe), Yoshkar-Ola, Teykovo, Yurya, Novosibirsk, Kansk, Irkutsk, as well as near the village of Drovyanaya in the Chita region. Nine regiments (81 launchers) were deployed in missile divisions on the territory of Belarus - near the cities of Lida, Mozyr and Postavy. Some of the Topols that remained on the territory of Belarus after the collapse of the USSR were withdrawn from it by November 27, 1996.
Each year, one control launch of the Topol rocket is carried out from the Plesetsk test site. The high reliability of the complex is evidenced by the fact that during its testing and operation, about fifty control and test launches of missiles were carried out. All of them went without a hitch.
On the basis of the Topol ICBM, a conversion space launch vehicle "Start" was developed. Launches of Start rockets are carried out from the Plesetsk and Svobodny cosmodromes.
The material was prepared based on information from open sources
5:06 / 24.04.16
Strategic Missile Forces: mobile ground-based missile system "Topol" with ICBM 15Zh58
RT-2PM "Topol" (GRAU complex/missile index - 15P158/15Zh58, according to the START treaty - RS-12M, according to NATO classification - SS-25 Sickle, translated - Serp) - Soviet/Russian mobile ground-based strategic missile system with three-stage solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile RT-2PM.
APU 15U168 of the 15P158 “Topol” complex / Photo: tvzvezda.ru, Konstantin Semenov
Development history
The development of the Topol strategic mobile complex (RS-12M) with a three-stage intercontinental ballistic missile suitable for placement on a self-propelled vehicle chassis (based on the 15Zh58 ICBM on solid mixed fuel weighing 45 tons with a monoblock nuclear warhead weighing 1 ton) was started on July 19, 1977 years at the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering under the leadership of chief designer Alexander Nadiradze in 1975. After the death of A. Nadiradze (he was director and chief designer of MIT 1961 - 1987, died in 1977), work was continued under the leadership of Boris Lagutin (general designer of MIT 1987 - 1993). The mobile launcher on a wheeled chassis was developed by the Titan Central Design Bureau at the Volgograd Barikady plant.
Alexander Nadiradze / Photo: liveinternet.ru
Boris Lagutin / Photo: liveinternet.ru
Resolution of the Central Committee of the CPSU and the Council of Ministers of the USSR No. 668-212 on the development of the Topol missile system was issued on July 19, 1977. The first flight test of the rocket took place on October 27, 1982 at the Kapustin Yar test site and ended unsuccessfully. The second (according to other sources, the first) launch was carried out on February 8, 1983 at the Plesetsk training ground by the combat crew of the 6th Research University and was successful. The first three test launches were carried out from a silo launcher of the RT-2P missile, converted specifically for this work.
Launch of the 15Zh58 / RS-12M Topol ICBM from the Plesetsk training ground / Photo: pressa-rvsn.livejournal.com
On August 10, 1983, the fourth launch of the RS-12M rocket was carried out, it became the first carried out from a self-propelled launcher 15U128. In total, at the stage of joint flight tests of the complex from February 1983 to December 23, 1987, 16 missile launches were carried out. The missile system was put into service on December 1, 1988.
From November 1984 to September 1994, during the period of serial production of elements of the complex and placing missile regiments on combat duty, 32 control and serial launches were carried out (in defense of the party). During the period of operation of the PGRK in the Strategic Missile Forces from April 1988 to November 2005, 33 combat training launches of the RT-2PM missile were carried out.
RS-12M - intercontinental strategic missile mobile ground-based, which significantly increases its survivability in combat conditions.
One of the most successful modern Russian complexes was considered to be the Topol mobile ground-based missile system (SS-25 “Sickle” according to NATO classification) with the RS-12M missile. It became the first mobile complex equipped with an intercontinental-range missile, put into service after almost two decades of unsuccessful attempts made by various design organizations.
Rocket 15Zh58 (RT-2PM)
The 15Zh58 rocket is designed according to a design with three sustainer stages. To ensure high energy-mass perfection and increase the firing range, a new, more advanced mixed fuel of increased density, with a specific impulse increased by several units compared to the fillers of previously created engines, was used in all sustainer stages.
Layout diagram of the 15Zh58 rocket: 1 - warhead; 2- transition compartment; 3 - stage III sustainer solid propellant rocket engine; 4 - connecting compartment of stage II; 5 - second stage sustainer solid propellant rocket engine; 6 - connecting compartment of stage I; 7 - first stage sustainer solid propellant rocket engine; 8 - tail section of the first stage / Image: rvsn.ruzhany.info
Rocket 15Zh58 of the 15P158 “Topol” complex / Photo: rvsn.ruzhany.info
All three stages are equipped with solid propellant rocket engines with one fixed nozzle. On the outer surface of the tail section of the first stage there were folding rotary lattice aerodynamic rudders (4 pieces), used for flight control together with gas-jet rudders and 4 lattice aerodynamic stabilizers.
The spent first stage of the Topol ICBM after launch from the Plesetsk test site - the lattice aerodynamic rudders are clearly visible / Photo: www.edu.severodvinsk.ru
Nozzle block of the first stage of the 15Zh58 rocket of the 15P158 “Topol” complex / Photo: www.edu.severodvinsk.ru
The second stage structurally consists of a connecting compartment and a sustainer solid propellant rocket motor. The third stage has almost the same design, but it additionally includes a transition compartment to which the head part is attached.
The first stage of the 15Zh58 rocket of the 15P158 “Topol” complex / Photo: rvsn.ruzhany.info
The second stage of the 15Zh58 rocket of the 15P158 “Topol” complex / Photo: rvsn.ruzhany.info
The third stage of the 15Zh58 rocket of the 15P158 “Topol” complex / Photo: rvsn.ruzhany.info
The bodies of the upper stages were made for the first time using the method of continuous winding of organoplastic according to the “cocoon” pattern. The third stage was equipped with a transition compartment for attaching the warhead.
Launch stage of the 15Zh58 missile warhead of the 15P158 “Topol” complex / Photo: rvsn.ruzhany.info
Controlling the firing range was a complex technical task and was carried out by cutting off the third-stage propulsion engine, using a thrust cut-off unit, with eight reversible bells and “windows” cut through by DUZs (DUZ - detonating extended charge) in the organoplastic power structure of the body. The thrust cut-off unit was located on the front bottom of the upper stage body.
An autonomous, inertial control system was developed at NPO Automation and Instrumentation under the leadership of Vladimir Lapygin. The aiming system was developed under the leadership of the chief designer of the Kyiv Arsenal plant, Seraphim Parnyakov.
Vladimir Lapygin / Photo: faceruss.ru
Seraphim Parnyakov / Photo: space.com.ua
The inertial control system has its own digital computer, which made it possible to achieve high shooting accuracy. The control system provides missile flight control, routine maintenance on the missile and launcher, pre-launch preparation and launch of the missile. All pre-launch preparation and launch operations, as well as preparatory and routine work, are fully automated.
In the foreground is a mock-up of an ICBM warhead / Photo: militaryrussia.ru
The warhead is monoblock, nuclear, weighing about 1 ton. The warhead includes a propulsion system and a control system that provides a circular probable deviation (CPD) of 400 m (as our sources say; in the West, the accuracy is estimated at 150-200 m). “Topol” is equipped with a set of means to overcome the missile defense of a potential enemy. The nuclear warhead was created at the All-Union Research Institute of Experimental Physics under the leadership of chief designer Samvel Kocharyants.
Samvel Kocharyants / Photo: atomic-energy.ru
According to Western sources, the missile was tested at least once with four individually targetable warheads, but this option was not further developed.
The rocket's flight is controlled by rotary gas-jet and lattice aerodynamic rudders. New nozzle devices for solid fuel engines have been created. To ensure secrecy, camouflage, decoy systems, and camouflage means have been developed. Just like the previous mobile complexes of the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering. The 15Zh58 rocket is produced in Votkinsk. The 15Zh58 (RT-2PM) rocket spends its entire service life in a sealed transport and launch container 22 m long and 2 m in diameter.
TPK with 15Zh58 missile / Photo: rvsn.ruzhany.info
Initially, the warranty period for the rocket's operation was set at 10 years. Later the warranty period was extended to 15 years.
Launcher and equipment
During operation, the missile is located in a transport and launch container installed on a mobile launcher. It is mounted on the basis of a seven-axle chassis of a MAZ heavy-duty vehicle. The rocket is launched from a vertical position using a powder pressure accumulator (PAA) placed in a transport and launch container (TPC).
The launcher was developed at the Volgograd Central Design Bureau "Titan" under the leadership of Viktor Shurygin.
Victor Shurygin / Photo: topwar.ru
The seven-axle MAZ-7912 (15U128.1) was used as the chassis of the mobile complex launcher, later - the MAZ-7917 (15U168) with a 14x12 wheel arrangement (Barricades plant in Volgograd).
SPU 15U128.1 on a MAZ-7912 chassis with TPK - Topol complex (official photo from documents under SALT agreements) / Photo: www.fas.org
Serial APU 15U128.1 on the MAZ-7912 chassis, complex 15P158.1 / Photo: military.tomsk.ru/forum
APU 15U168 on a MAZ-7917 chassis with TPK - Topol complex (official photo from documents under SALT agreements / Photo: www.fas.org
SPU 15U168 of the 15P158 "Topol" complex. On the starboard side of the SPU there are some required structural elements missing. Exhibition "Patriot", Kubinka, 2015 / Photo: Vitaly Kuzmin
This car from the Minsk Automobile Plant is equipped with a 710 hp diesel engine. Yaroslavl Motor Plant. The vehicle contained a sealed transport and launch container with a diameter of 2 m and a length of 22 m. The mass of the launcher with the missile was about 100 tons. Despite this, the Topol complex had good mobility and maneuverability.
Solid propellant engine charges were developed at the Lyubertsy NPO Soyuz under the leadership of Boris Zhukov (later the association was headed by Zinovy Pak).
Boris Zhukov / Photo: liveinternet.ru
Zinovy Pak / Photo: minpromtorg.gov.ru
Composite materials and the container were developed and manufactured at the Central Research Institute of Special Engineering under the leadership of Viktor Protasov. The steering hydraulic drives of the rocket and the hydraulic drives of the self-propelled launcher were developed at the Moscow Central Research Institute of Automation and Hydraulics.
Viktor Protasov / Photo: liveinternet.ru
Some sources reported that the launch could have been carried out from any point on the patrol route, but according to more precise information: “Upon receiving an order to launch via ASBU, the APU crew is obliged to occupy the nearest route point suitable for launch and deploy the APU.” In the field (i.e., at field infantry fighting stations and infantry fighting vehicles, Topol regiments are on combat duty, as a rule, for 1.5 months in winter and the same amount in summer).
The RS-12M could also be launched directly from the 15U135 Krona special unit, in which the Topols are on combat duty on stationary BSPs. For this purpose, the hangar roof is made retractable.
Unit 15U135 "Krona" (official photo from documents under SALT agreements) / Photo: www.fas.org
Combat readiness (time to prepare for launch) from the moment the order was received until the missile was launched was brought to two minutes.
SPU exit from structure 15U135 (Krona) / Photo: rvsn.ruzhany.info
To ensure the possibility of launching, the launcher is hung on jacks and leveled. These operations enter deployment mode. The container with the rocket is then raised to a vertical position. To do this, in the “Start” mode, the powder pressure accumulator (PAA), located on the APU itself, is activated. It is needed in order for the hydraulic system to work to lift the boom from the TPK to the vertical. In other words, this is an ordinary gas generator. On the Pioneer, the boom was raised (i.e., the hydraulic pump engine was running) driven by the chassis propulsion engine, which led to the need to have a system for maintaining the HD in a “hot state,” duplicating the HD starting system with air cylinders, etc. But This scheme somewhat reduced reliability.
Missile division, on combat duty / Photo: rvsn.ruzhany.info
The type of launch is artillery: after installing the TPK in a vertical position and shooting off its upper protective cap, the first TPK PAD is triggered first - to extend the movable bottom of the TPK in order to “rest” on the ground for greater stability, and then the second PAD pushes the rocket to a height of several meters , after which the first stage propulsion engine is started.
The APU is controlled by PKP "Zenit" (divisional link) and "Granit" (regimental link).
A mobile regimental command post (PKP RP) was developed for the Topol complex. PKP RP units were placed on the MAZ-543 chassis.
Combat duty support vehicle (MOBD) of the Topol complex on the MAZ-543M chassis / Photo: www.fas.org
Composition of PKP RP:
- Unit 15B168 - combat control vehicle
- Unit 15B179 - communication machine 1
- Unit 15B75 - communication machine 2
One MOBD included the functions of 4 units of the Pioneer complex: MDES, canteen, dormitory, MDSO). Those. had diesel units, a utility compartment, a control unit. () The Topol RK APUs were equipped with a modernized RBU system, which made it possible to receive launch commands via the Perimeter system in 3 ranges.
Testing and deployment
In February 1983, the Topol PGRK entered testing. The first flight test of the missile was carried out at the 53rd NIIP MO (now the 1st GIK MO) Plesetsk on February 8, 1983. This and two subsequent launches were made from converted silos of stationary RT-2P missiles. One of the launches was unsuccessful. The series of tests continued until December 23, 1987. In total, more than 70 launches of this missile were carried out.
The head of a silo of type 15P765 / 15P765M at the Plesetsk training ground, footage of the launch of the Topol ICBM / Photo: militaryrussia.ru
In 1984, the construction of stationary structures and the equipment of combat patrol routes for Topol mobile missile systems began in the positional areas of the RT-2P and UR-100 ICBMs being removed from duty and located in the OS silos. Later, the positioning areas of the complexes removed from service under the INF Treaty were arranged medium range.
The development of the elements of the complex proceeded in stages, and apparently the greatest difficulties were associated with the combat control system. After the successful completion of the first series of tests, completed by mid-1985 (15 test launches took place during April 1985), on July 23, 1985, the RT-2PM entered service and was put on combat duty in the Yoshkar-Ola area first regiment of the PGRK. At the same time, development of the combat control system obviously continued.
Test launches of the Topol rocket / Photo: rvsn.ruzhany.info
Serial production of missiles has been located at the plant in Votkinsk (Udmurtia) since 1985, and the mobile launcher was manufactured at the Volgograd plant "Barricades".
In parallel, in 1986, on the basis of the second and third stages of the 15Zh58 rocket, a medium-range mobile soil complex “Speed” was developed with a maximum firing range greater than that of the front-line “Temp-S” complex and shorter than that of the “Pioneer” complex. Such a range, with powerful combat equipment, made it possible to squeeze into the launch weight of the missile, which ensured acceptable total weight and dimensions of the self-propelled launcher. Acceptable for “riding” across countries of Eastern Europe. Thus, the question of flight time for London, Rome, Bonn was removed.
The first regiment, equipped with a mobile regimental command post, was put on combat duty only on April 28, 1987 (in the area of Nizhny Tagil).
Part of the Topol PGRK was deployed in newly created position areas. After the signing of the INF Treaty in 1987, some position areas of the dismantled Pioneer medium-range PGRK began to be re-equipped for the deployment of the Topol complexes.
Test launches of missiles, as already mentioned, ended on December 23, 1987, but the full testing of the mobile complex, and not just the missile, ended only in December 1988, so the final decision on the adoption of the Topol complex for service dates back to December 1, 1988 g., i.e. more than three years after the start of trial operation.
On May 27, 1988, the first missile regiment with a modernized mobile regimental command post (near Irkutsk) was put on combat duty.
Example of the location of structures at the starting position / Image: rvsn.ruzhany.info
At the time of signing the START I Treaty in 1991, the USSR had 288 Topol missile systems. After the signing of START-1, the deployment of these systems continued. () The first missile regiment with the Topol missile system was put on combat duty on July 23, 1985 (according to other sources on July 20), even before the completion of joint flight tests in the 14th missile division (Yoshkar-Ola) (commander - Colonel Dremov V . V.), and until the end of 1985 - another missile regiment.
On May 27, 1988, the first regiment entered the database, the divisions of which included an improved mobile command post (PKP) equipped with a new automated control system.
| Development of the RT-2PM group. Number of launchers on combat duty | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| 1984 | 1985 | 1986 | 1987 | 1988 | 1989 | 1990 | 1991 | 1992 | 1993 | 1994 | 1995 | 1996 | 1997 | 1998 | 1999 | 2000 | 2001 | 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 |
| RT-2PM | 18 | 72 | 81 | 99 | 162 | 234 | 306 | 333 | 351 | 369 | 360 | 360 | 360 | 360 | 360 | 360 | 360 | 360 | 345 | 333 | 315 | 291 | 254 | 243 | 213 | 180 | 171 |
|
|
|
|
|
| Total ICBMs | 1398 | 1398 | 1398 | 1390 | 1398 | 1398 | 1398 | 1333 | 1305 | 1129 | 975 | 870 | 832 | 748 | 756 |
|
||||||||||||||||
| % of RKSN (including RSD) | 0,94 | 3,76 | 4,23 | 5,37 | 9,34 | 14,63 | 21,21 | 24,98 | 26,89 | 32,68 | 36,92 | 41,38 | 43,27 | 48,13 | 47,62 |
|
||||||||||||||||
The Topol missile divisions were deployed near the cities of Barnaul, Verkhnyaya Salda (Nizhny Tagil), Vypolzovo (Bologoe), Yoshkar-Ola, Teykovo, Yurya, Novosibirsk, Kansk, Irkutsk, as well as near the village of Drovyanaya in the Chita region. Nine regiments (81 launchers) were deployed in missile divisions on the territory of Belarus - near the cities of Lida, Mozyr and Postavy.
As of the end of 1996, the Strategic Missile Forces had 360 Topol PGRKs.
Each year, one control launch of the Topol rocket is carried out from the Plesetsk test site. The high reliability of the complex is evidenced by the fact that during its testing and operation, about fifty control and test launches of missiles were carried out. All of them went without a hitch. On November 29, 2005, a mobile-based combat training launch of the RS-12M Topol ICBM was carried out from the Plesetsk cosmodrome in the direction of the Kura training ground in Kamchatka. A training missile warhead hit a simulated target at a training ground on the Kamchatka Peninsula with specified accuracy. The main purpose of the launch is to check the reliability of the equipment. The missile remained on combat duty for 20 years. This is the first time in the practice of not only domestic, but also global rocket science - a solid-fuel rocket that has been in operation for so many years has been successfully launched. Based on the Topol PGRK with the 15Zh58 missile, the following were created:
1. Complex "Perimeter-RC", missile "Sirena"- a complex with a command missile - a missile system to ensure the delivery of information about the need for a retaliatory strike in the conditions of the cessation of normal communications. The regiment of the Perimeter-RTs ICBM, created on the basis of the 15Zh58 Topol ICBM, took up combat duty in December 1990 in the 8th Missile Division of the Strategic Missile Forces (Yurya, regiment commander - Colonel S.I. Arzamastsev). In December 2011, the commander of the Strategic Missile Forces, Lieutenant General Sergei Karakaev, stated that the Perimeter system exists and is on combat duty. The command missile of the Perimeter-RC complex was tested with five ICBM launches from the Plesetsk test site from August 8 to December 25, 1990.
2. rocket 15Zh58E "Topol-E"- experimental launch vehicle for testing new types of combat equipment for ICBMs, tentative name 15Zh58E.
Launch of the Topol-E ICBM, Kapustin Yar training ground, site 107, 2009 / Photo: militaryphotos.net.
Projections of the Topol and Topol-E missiles (15Zh58 and 15Zh58E) - SS-25 SICKLE / Image: militaryrussia.ru
3. "Start-1" - satellite launch vehicle. The development of the launch vehicle began in 1989. The first launch was made on March 25, 1993. The design is a 5-stage launch vehicle. Payload mass for low orbit - 500 kg
Launch vehicle "Start-1" in the workshop of the Votkinsk Machine-Building Plant / Photo: www.iz-article.ru
Reduction
According to the START-2 treaty, 360 units of the Topol missile system were reduced by 2007.
After the collapse of the USSR, some of the Topols remained on the territory of Belarus. On August 13, 1993, the withdrawal of the Topol Strategic Missile Forces group from Belarus began, and on November 27, 1996 it was completed.
As of July 2006, 243 Topol missile systems were still on combat duty (Teykovo, Yoshkar-Ola, Yurya, Nizhny Tagil, Novosibirsk, Kansk, Irkutsk, Barnaul, Vypolzovo.
An interesting fact is that the Topol complex is the first Soviet strategic missile system, the name of which was declassified in the Soviet press in an article refuting accusations from the American side that Russia was allegedly testing a new missile system in violation of the current arms reduction treaty .
Tactical and technical indicators
| Performance characteristics complex "Topol" |
|
| Preparation time for launch, min | 2 |
| Thermonuclear charge power, Mt | 0,55 |
| Firing accuracy (CAO), m | 900/200* |
| Area of combat patrol area, km 2 | 125000 |
| Launcher | 7-axle chassis MAZ-7310 |
| Guaranteed shelf life of the missile in the TPK, years | 10
(extended to 15) |
| Launcher type | mobile, group launcher with mortar launch |
|
Intercontinental ballistic missile 15Zh58 (RT-2PM) |
|
| Firing range, km | 10500 |
| Number of steps | 3 + dilution stage combat blocks. |
| Engine | Solid propellant rocket motor |
| Start type | ground from TPK due to PAD |
| Length: | |
| - full, m | 21,5 |
| - without HF, m | 18,5 |
| - first stage, m | 8,1 |
| - second stage, m | 4,6 |
| - third stage, m | 3,9 |
| - head part, m | 2,1 |
| Diameter: | |
| - first stage housing, m | 1,8 |
| - second stage housing, m | 1,55 |
| - third stage housing, m | 1,34 |
| - TPK (transport and launch container), m | 2,0 |
| Launch weight, t | 45,1 |
| Mass of the loaded first stage of the rocket, t | 27,8 |
| Head part | monobloc detachable |
| Head mass, kg | 1000 |
| Control system | autonomous, inertial with on-board computer |
|
Autonomous launcher (APU) |
|
| Number of missiles on launcher | 1 |
| Base - wheeled | MAZ-7912, MAZ-7917 |
| Wheel formula | 14x12 |
| Weight: | |
| - launcher without TPK, t | 52,94 |
| Overall dimensions (without TPK/with TPK): | |
| - length, m | 19,520/22,303 |
| - width, m | 3,850/4,5 |
| - height, m | 3,0/4,5 |
| Engine | diesel V-58-7 (12V) |
| Power, hp | 710 |
| Fuel capacity, l | 825 |
| Speed, km/h | 40 |
| Cruising range, km | 400 |
| Time to transfer to combat position, minutes. | 2 |
|
Combat duty support vehicle (MOBD) |
|
| Weight, kg | 43500 |
| dimensions: | |
| - length, m | 15,935 |
| - width, m | 3,23 |
| - height, m | 4,415 |
| Power, hp | 525 |
| Cruising range, km | |
| Type | garage with sliding roof |
| Purpose | for storing one SPU |
| Built, units | 408 |
| Dimensions: | |
| - length, m | 30,4 |
| - width, m | 8,1 |
| - height, m | 7,2 |
|
Composition of connections and parts |
|
| Missile division | 3-5 missile regiments (CP and 9 SPU in each). |
| Regimental command post | stationary and mobile "Barrier" or "Granite" (based on MAZ-543M). |
| Division composition: | |
| - preparation and start-up group, pcs. | 3 |
| - combat control and communications group | |
What's next...
At the end of the 1980s, on a competitive basis, the development of a universal dual-based ICBM began - silo-based and mobile installation. At MIT, which traditionally dealt with soil complexes, they began to develop a mobile complex, and at the Yuzhnoye Design Bureau in Ukraine (Dnepropetrovsk) - a mine complex. But in 1991, all work was completely transferred to the Moscow Institute of Heat Engineering. The design was headed by Boris Lagutin, and after his retirement in 1997, academician Yuri Solomonov, appointed general designer MIT.
But that is another story...
Complex RS-12M / 15P158.1 / 15P158 "Topol", missile RT-2PM / 15Zh58 - SS-25 SICKLE / PL-5
Intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) / mobile ground-based missile system (MGRS). Preliminary development of the complex project has been carried out since 1975 by the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering (MIT) under the leadership of Alexander Davidovich Nadiradze on the basis of ICBMs and MRSDs. Chief designer since 1987 - Boris Lagutin (until 1993). The full development of the Topol ICBM for use as part of the PGRK began according to the Resolution of the USSR Council of Ministers dated July 19, 1976 ( ). The next Resolution of the USSR Council of Ministers on the development of the Topol complex with solid fuel ICBMs was issued on July 19, 1977.
In 1979, testing began on the production of charges for the engines of the second and third stages of the rocket at the Pavlograd Chemical Plant ().
The first launch of an ICBM from a specially equipped silo launcher was carried out at the Kapustin Yar test site on October 27, 1982. Probably, one of the launch tasks was to check the operation of the launch systems and the missile’s exit from the TPK, followed by the launch of the main engine of the first stage. The launch was unsuccessful. Flight development tests (FDT) of the 15Zh58 ICBM began with a launch from a converted silo launcher at the Plesetsk training ground on February 8, 1983. The launch was completely successful. In total in 1983-1984. 12 launches took place under the LCI program. All launches were carried out at the Plesetsk test site. The test launch of the LCI program took place on November 20, 1984.
Serial production of the Topol missile system began according to the Resolution of the USSR Council of Ministers dated December 28, 1984 ( ist. - Strategic missiles). The missile has been mass-produced by the Votkinsk Machine-Building Plant since 1985. Self-propelled launchers of the complex were produced by the Barrikady plant (Volgograd). In 1984, the construction of permanent base structures and the equipment of combat patrol routes for the PGRK began. The objects were located in those divisions of the Strategic Missile Forces where the RT-2P, MR-UR-100 and UR-100N ICBMs were removed from combat duty. At the same time, the PGRK complex was deployed in the positional areas of the Pioneer MRBM ( ist. - Strategic missiles).
The first division of the PGRK 15P158.1 "Topol" entered combat duty on July 23, 1985 as part of the Strategic Missile Forces regiment in Yoshkar-Ola, Mari Autonomous Okrug of the USSR (). Until the end of 1985, another PGRK floor took up combat duty ( ist. - Strategic missiles). The first regiment of the Strategic Missile Forces with RS-12M missiles, equipped with the mobile regimental command post "Barrier" (), was put on combat duty on April 28, 1987 in the area of Nizhny Tagil and on May 27, 1988 the first missile regiment was put on combat duty with a modernized mobile regimental command post "Granit" (), based in Irkutsk (). The Topol ICBM complex was adopted by the USSR Strategic Missile Forces on December 1, 1988 ().
Since 1997 is gradual replacement of the RS-12M ICBM with ICBM and .
http://tvzvezda.ru/).
Launches of the RS-12M Topol ICBM:
| №pp | date | Launch location | Result | Description |
| 29.09.1981 | Plesetsk | There was probably no such launch, but it is mentioned in a number of foreign sources (). The date is referred to as the start date of LCI in some sources (). The launch is mentioned in the book on the history of the Plesetsk cosmodrome, 2002 edition. Most likely this is a dart test of an early prototype/test rocket of the 15Zh58 missile |
||
| 30.10.1981 | Plesetsk | Throw launch (?) | ||
| 25.08.1982 | Plesetsk | Throw launch (?) | ||
| 00 | 27.10.1982 | Kapustin Yar | unsuccessful launch | Launch from a specially converted silo. |
| 01 | 08.02.1983 (02/18/1983 according to other data) | Plesetsk | successful launch | The launch was carried out by the combat crew of the 6th Research University. Launch of an RT-2P missile from a specially converted silo launcher (). First launch of the 15Zh58 rocket. |
| 02 | 03.05.1983 (05/05/1983 according to other data) | Plesetsk | successful launch | Launch of an RT-2P missile from a specially converted silo launcher (). 2nd start LKI () |
| 03 | 30.06.1983 (05/31/1983 according to other data) | Plesetsk | successful launch | Launch of an RT-2P missile from a specially converted silo launcher (). 3rd launch of LCI () |
| 04 | 10.08.1983 | Plesetsk | emergency start | First launch from SPU PGRK. 4th launch of LCI. In the book "Navigators of the Planets" (under the general editorship of E.L. Mezhiritsky, 2008), the launch is called an emergency - not through the fault of the control system (). |
| 05 | 25.10.1983 | Plesetsk | successful launch | 5th launch of LCI () |
| 06 | 20.02.1984 | Plesetsk | successful launch | 6th launch of LCI () |
| 07 | 27.03.1984 | Plesetsk | successful launch | 7th launch of LCI () |
| 08 | 23.041984 | Plesetsk | successful launch | 8th launch of LCI () |
| 09 | 23.05.1984 | Plesetsk | successful launch | 9th launch of LCI () |
| 10 | 26.07.1984 | Plesetsk | successful launch | 10th launch of LCI () |
| 11 | 10.09.1984 | Plesetsk | successful launch | 11th launch of LKI () |
| 12 | 02.10.1984 | Plesetsk | emergency start | 12th launch of LCI (). In the book "Navigators of the Planets" (under the general editorship of E.L. Mezhiritsky, 2008), the launch is called an emergency - not through the fault of the control system (). |
| 13 | 20.11.1984 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Test launch LKI () |
| 14 | 06.12.1984 | Plesetsk | successful launch | 13th launch of LKI |
| 15 | 06.12.1984 | Plesetsk | successful launch | 14th launch of LKI |
| 16 | 29.01.1985 | Plesetsk | emergency start | 15th launch of the LKI () program. In the book "Navigators of the Planets" (under the general editorship of E.L. Mezhiritsky, 2008), the launch is called an emergency - not through the fault of the control system (). |
| 17 | 21.02.1985 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch |
| 18 | 22.04.1985 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch () |
| 19 | 14.06.1985 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch () |
| 20 | 06.08.1985 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch () |
| 21 | 25.08.1985 (08/28/1985 according to other data) | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch () |
| 22 | 04.10.1985 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch () |
| 23 | 24.10.1985 (10/25/1985 according to other data) | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch () |
| 24 | 06.12.1985 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 25 | 18.04.1986 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 26 | 20.09.1986 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 27 | 29.11.1986 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 28 | 25.12.1986 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 29 | 11.02.1987 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 30 | 04/26/1987 (05/26/1987 according to other data) | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 31 | 30.06.1987 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 32 | 14.07.1987 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 33 | 31.07.1987 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 34 | 23.12.1987 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 35 | 23.12.1987 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Last launch of the joint testing program PGRK "Topol" (). 16th launch of LCI (). |
| 36 | 29.04.1988 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch of the Topol ICBM () |
| 37 | 07/05/1988 (08/05/1988 according to other data) | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 38 | 14.09.1988 | Plesetsk | successful launch | |
| 39 | 08.10.1988 (10/20/1988 according to other data) | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 40 | 09.12.1988 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 41 | 07.02.1989 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 42 | 21.03.1989 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 43 | 15.06.1989 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 44 | 20.09.1989 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 45 | 10/26/1989 (10/27/1989 according to other data) | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 46 | 29.03.1990 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 47 | 21.05.1990 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 48 | 24.05.1990 | Plesetsk | successful launch | |
| 49 | 31.07.1990 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 50 | 08.08.1990 | Plesetsk, site No. 169 | successful launch | 1st launch of the test program for the 15YU75 command missile based on the 15ZH58 missile of the Perimeter-RC system ( , ) |
| 51 | 16.08.1990 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 52 | 17.10.1990 | Plesetsk, site No. 169 | successful launch | 2nd launch of the 15YU75 command rocket based on the 15ZH58 rocket of the Perimeter-RC system ( , ) |
| 53 | 01.11.1990 | Plesetsk, site No. 169 | successful launch | 3rd launch of the 15YU75 command rocket based on the 15ZH58 rocket of the Perimeter-RC system ( , ) |
| 54 | 25.12.1990 | Plesetsk, site No. 169 | successful launch | 4th launch of the 15YU75 command rocket based on the 15ZH58 rocket of the Perimeter-RC system ( , ) |
| 55 | 25.12.1990 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 56 | 07.02.1991 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () Combat training launch from the 2nd launcher of the 306th missile regiment () |
| 57 | 05.04.1991 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 58 | 25.06.1991 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 59 | 19.08.1991 (08/20/1991 according to other data) | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 60 | 02.10.1991 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 61 | 25.02.1993 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 62 | 25.03.1993 | Plesetsk | partially successful launch | LV EK-25 "Start-1" ( , ) |
| 63 | 23.07.1993 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 64 | 22.06.1994 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 65 | 23.09.1994 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 66 | 10.11.1994 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 67 | 28.03.1995 | Plesetsk | emergency start | LV "Start" (5 stages), load - overall weight mock-up EKA-2 and the Gurwin Techsat 1A and UNAMSat A satellites were not launched into orbit (). |
| 68 | 14.04.1995 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 69 | 10.10.1995 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 70 | 10.11.1995 | Plesetsk | successful launch | |
| 71 | 17.04.1996 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 72 | 03.10.1996 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 73 | 09.11.1996 (05.11.1996 according to other data) | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 74 | 04.03.1997 | Free | successful launch | The first successful launch of the Start-1.2 launch vehicle (), the Zeya satellite (). |
| 75 | 03.10.1997 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 76 | 24.12.1997 | Free | successful launch | LV "Start-1" (), satellite Early Bird (). |
| 77 | 16.09.1998 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 78 | 01.10.1999 | Plesetsk | successful launch | () |
| 79 | 11.10.2000 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch () |
| 80 | 05.12.2000 | Free | successful launch | LV "Start-1" (), satellite EROS A (). |
| 81 | 16.02.2001 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch () |
| 82 | 20.02.2001 | Free | successful launch | LV "Start-1" (), satellite "Odin" (). |
| 83 | 03.10.2001 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch () |
| 84 | 01.11.2001 19-20 Moscow time | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). Presumably testing combat equipment (). |
| 85 | 12.10.2002 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch () |
| 86 | 27.03.2003 12-27 Moscow time | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). The missile remained on combat duty for 18 years. According to media reports, this is the 79th launch of the Topol from the Plesetsk training ground and the 43rd combat training launch (). |
| 87 | 18.02.2004 13-30 Moscow time | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). According to Western data, it is possible that the launch was carried out for the purpose of testing promising combat equipment (,). |
| 88 | 02.11.2004 | Plesetsk | successful launch | |
| 89 | 01.11.2005 | Kapustin Yar | successful launch | According to Western data (target IP-10 is mentioned), the launch target of the test advanced combat equipment, 15Zh58E missile. The launch took place at the Sary-Shagan test site () |
| 90 | 29.11.2005 10-44 Moscow time | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch of the Topol ICBM at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). The purpose of the launch is to test the reliability of the rocket with a long shelf life. For the first time in the Strategic Missile Forces, the shelf life of a missile was 20 years (). |
| 91 | 25.04.2006 | Free | successful launch | LV "Start-1" (), satellite EROS B (). |
| 92 | 03.08.2006 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). |
| 93 | 18.10.2007 09-10 Moscow time | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). The service life has been extended to 21 years. |
| 94 | 08.12.2007 17-43 Moscow time | Kapustin Yar | successful launch | |
| 95 | 28.08.2008 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). Probably the 15Zh58E rocket. " Experimental warhead missiles hit a hypothetical target at a training ground on the Kamchatka Peninsula with high accuracy, thereby demonstrating the ability to reliably hit targeted highly protected objects" (). |
| 96 | 12.10.2008 11-24 Moscow time | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). |
| 97 | 10.04.2009 12-09 Moscow time | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). The launch was carried out by the crew of the Irkutsk Strategic Missile Forces unit. The launched missile was manufactured in 1987 and until August 2007 was on combat duty at the Teikovsky missile formation (,). |
| 98 | 10.12.2009 | Kapustin Yar | successful launch | advanced combat equipment. The launch was carried out at the Sary-Shagan test site (). |
| 99 | 28.10.2010 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). The launched missile was manufactured in 1987 and until August 2007 was on combat duty at the Teikovsky missile formation (Ivanovo region), and then stored at one of the arsenals of the Strategic Missile Forces (). |
| 100 | 05.12.2010 | Kapustin Yar | successful launch | Launch of the 15Zh58E "Topol-E" rocket for testing purposes advanced combat equipment. The launch was carried out at the Sary-Shagan test site (). |
| 101 | 03.09.2011 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). The missile was produced by industry in 1988 and until March 2011 was on duty at the Novosibirsk missile formation. According to media reports, the missile was launched with a new experimental warhead (). |
| 102 | 03.11.2011 10-45 Moscow time | Plesetsk | successful launch | Launch as part of work to extend the service life of Topol missiles, launch at the Kura test site (Kamchatka). The launch used a rocket produced by industry in 1987 and as of July 2007 the rocket was on combat duty in the Tagil formation of the Strategic Missile Forces. The launch was carried out by the space forces and personnel of the Strategic Missile Forces unit from Yoshkar-Ola. Based on the launch results, the service life of the RS-12M missiles was extended to 25 years. |
| 103 | 07.06.2012 21-39 Moscow time | Kapustin Yar | successful launch | Launch of the Topol-E rocket to test advanced combat equipment. The launch took place at the Sary-Shagan test site. “The goals of this launch were to confirm the stability of the main flight characteristics of missiles of this class during extended service life, to test measuring instruments of various types of measuring systems in the interests of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, and to conduct another test combat equipment for intercontinental ballistic missiles" (). |
| 104 | 19.10.2012 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). “The goals of this launch were to confirm the stability of the main flight characteristics of missiles of this class during the period of operation extended to 24 years and to assess the possibility of extending the service life by 25 years” (). |
| 105 | 10.10.2013 17-39 Moscow time | Kapustin Yar | successful launch | Launch of the Topol-E rocket for testing purposes advanced combat equipment. The launch took place at the Sary-Shagan test site. According to Western data TEST 1 () |
| 106 | 30.10.2013 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). The launch was carried out by a rocket and a crew from the 14th division of the Strategic Missile Forces (Yoshkar-Ola). The launch was carried out as part of an exercise with a surprise check of the readiness of the aerospace defense and strategic missile forces. |
| 107 | 27.12.2013 21-30 Moscow time | Kapustin Yar | successful launch | Launch of the Topol-E rocket for testing purposes advanced combat equipment. The launch took place at the Sary-Shagan test site. According to Western data TEST 2 () |
| 108 | 04.03.2014 22-10 Moscow time | Kapustin Yar | successful launch | Topol-E rocket. “The purpose of the launch was to test advanced combat equipment for intercontinental ballistic missiles. The training warhead of the missile hit a conditional target at the Sary-Shagan training ground with specified accuracy. According to Western data TEST 3 () |
| - | March 2014 | Kapustin Yar | launch plan 2 | In addition to the launch on 03/04/2014, according to the Ministry of Defense of Kazakhstan, in March it was planned to conduct two more launches of ICBMs at the Sary-Shagan test site (). |
| 109 | 08.05.2014 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Combat training launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka). The launch was carried out as part of an exercise with a sudden check of the readiness of the aerospace defense and strategic missile forces (). |
| 110 | 20.05.2014 21-08 Moscow time | Kapustin Yar | successful launch | Topol-E rocket. “The purpose of the launch was to test advanced combat equipment for intercontinental ballistic missiles. The training warhead of the missile hit a conditional target at the Sary-Shagan test site () with specified accuracy. According to Western data TEST 4 () |
| 111 | 11.11.2014 | Kapustin Yar | emergency start | According to Western data, the Topol-E missile. The shooting took place at the Sary-Shagan training ground. Presumably one of the launches with promising combat equipment. According to Western data TEST 5 () |
| 112 | 22.08.2015 18-13 Moscow time | Kapustin Yar | successful launch | The rocket is probably Topol-E. “The purpose of the launch was to test advanced combat equipment for intercontinental ballistic missiles. The training warhead of the missile hit a conditional target at the Sary-Shagan training ground with specified accuracy. |
| 113 | 30.10.2015 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Successful launch as part of the training of the strategic forces control system. |
| 114 | 17.11.2015 15-12 Moscow time | Kapustin Yar | successful launch | |
| 115 | 24.12.2015 20-55 Moscow time | Kapustin Yar | successful launch | The rocket is probably Topol-E. “The purpose of the launch was to test advanced combat equipment for ICBMs.” The training warhead of the missile hit a simulated target at the Sary-Shagan training ground with specified accuracy. |
| 116 | 09.09.2016 | Plesetsk | successful launch | The objectives of the launch were to confirm the basic flight performance characteristics of the Topol intercontinental ballistic missile, as well as to test promising combat equipment and means of overcoming missile defense. The set launch goals were achieved in full. The experimental warhead of the missile hit a conditional target with high accuracy at the Kamchatka Peninsula test site () 0 The Topol-E missile is possibly the first launch of the State Test program of a new type of warhead developed by MIT. |
| 117 | 10/12/2016 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Successful launch at the Kura test site in Kamchatka as part of the program to confirm the extended service life of ICBMs (). This launch was probably carried out by a command rocket 15Yu75 (). |
| 118 | November 25, 2016 | Plesetsk site No. 167 | successful launch | According to Western data, the successful launch of a 15YU75 missile with a special warhead from the LC167 site of the Plesetsk training ground across the Kura battlefield in Kamchatka to test the combat readiness of the Perimeter-RC system () |
| - | 2016-2017 | According to the Russian Ministry of Defense for 2016-2017. planned to conduct 7 launches of the Topol ICBM. The insured amount for one launch is 180 million rubles. | ||
| 119 | September 26, 2017 | Kapustin Yar (site 107) | successful launch | Topol-E rocket. “The purpose of the launch was to test advanced combat equipment for ICBMs.” The training warhead of the missile hit a simulated target at the Sary-Shagan training ground with specified accuracy. “During the test, experimental data were obtained on the parameters of the target environment formed by the combat equipment of promising ballistic missiles in the process of overcoming missile defense. Subsequently, this information will be used in the interests of developing effective means of overcoming missile defense to equip a promising group of Russian ballistic missiles with them.” |
| 120 | October 26, 2017 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Successful launch at the Kura training ground (Kamchatka) during strategic exercises nuclear forces. |
| 121 | December 26, 2017 | Kapustin Yar (site 107) | successful launch | The rocket is probably Topol-E. The purpose of the launch was to test promising combat equipment for intercontinental ballistic missiles. During the test, experimental data was obtained that will be used in the interests of developing effective means of overcoming missile defense and equipping a promising group of Russian ballistic missiles with them (). |
| 122 | 04.07.2018 | Kapustin Yar (site 107) | accident | According to Western data, the emergency launch of the Topol-E missile at the Sary-Shagan test site - launch not confirmed from other sources () |
| 123 | 18.10.2018 | Plesetsk | successful launch | Launch within the framework of the program to extend the warranty period of the Topol missile () |
| 124 | 12/11/2018 (12/06/2018 according to Western data) | Kapustin Yar (site 107) | accident | The launch of the Topol-E rocket at the 107th site at the Sary-Shagan test site ended with the explosion of the first stage of the rocket in the first seconds of flight. Official version- explosion of an anti-aircraft missile of the S-350 complex (). |
| 125 | July 26, 2019 | Kapustin Yar (site 107) | successful launch | Launch of the Topol-E missile at the Sary-Shagan training ground to test new combat equipment () |
Removal from service: The RS-12M Topol ICBM is planned to be withdrawn from service in 2022 (December 2016, ).
Launch and ground equipment:
silo- an experimental experimental mine launcher was used at the first stage of ICBM testing. In the mid-1980s, some Western sources speculated that the SS-25 ICBM would be deployed in silos, among other things.
PGRK - autonomous launcher APU 15U128.1- missile system 15P158.1 "Topol" with a point" - MAZ-7912 chassis - this type of SPU was part of the Topol PGRK at the initial stage of deployment of the complex's assets. The SPU was developed by the Titan Central Design Bureau of the Barrikady plant (Volgograd). In part, the source notes that the 15U128.1 installation was precisely an SPU, and not an APU.
The length of the APU with TPK is 22.3 m (Poster from the exhibition "Army-2015", )
Chassis length - 17.3 m
APU width - 3.85 m
Minimum turning radius - 27 m
Power reserve - 400 km
SPU 15U128.1 on a MAZ-7912 chassis with a TPK - the Topol complex (official photo from documents on SALT agreements, http://www.fas.org).
SPU 15U128.1 on a MAZ-7912 chassis without TPK - Topol complex (official photo from documents on SALT agreements, http://www.fas.org).
Serial APU 15U128.1 on the MAZ-7912 chassis, complex 15P158.1 (http://military.tomsk.ru/forum).
PGRK - SPU 15U168- missile system 15P158 "Topol" - MAZ-7917 chassis. According to information from a number of historians, the SPU can launch from any point on the patrol route without prior geodetic reference and marking of the starting position (probably not true). The SPU was developed by the Titan Central Design Bureau of the Barrikady plant (Volgograd) under the leadership of V.M. Sobolev and V.A. Shurygin. The MAZ-7917 chassis was developed at the Minsk Automobile Plant under the leadership of V.P. Chvyalev ( ist. - Strategic missiles). The SPU is equipped with an autonomous power supply, a navigation system, radio and official communications equipment, a set of spare parts, a set of fastening and covering the unit on a railway platform.
Calculation - 3 people
Engine - diesel with a power of 710 hp.
Length of SPU with TPK - 22303 mm (Poster from the exhibition "Army-2015", )
SPU length without TPK - 19520 mm ()
Chassis length - 18.4 m
TPK length - 22.3 m ()
TPK diameter - 2 m ()
The width of the APU in the stowed position is 3.85 m (Poster from the exhibition "Army-2015", )
Height with TPK - 4350 mm (Poster from the exhibition "Army-2015", )
Height without TPK - 3000 mm ()
Ground clearance with full load - 475 mm ()
Total weight of the launcher - 105.1 t (Poster from the exhibition "Army-2015", )
Minimum turning radius - 26 m (Poster from the exhibition "Army-2015", )
Power reserve - 400 km
Maximum speed ():
- 40 km/h (roads of 1-2 categories)
- 25 km/h (roads 3-4 categories)
APU 15U168 on a MAZ-7917 chassis with a TPK - the Topol complex (official photo from documents on SALT agreements, http://www.fas.org).
APU 15U168 on a MAZ-7917 chassis without TPK - Topol complex (official photo from documents on SALT agreements, http://www.fas.org).
TPK missiles 15Zh58 / RS-12M (official photo from documents on the SALT treaties, http://www.fas.org).
APU 15U168 on the MAZ-7917 chassis of the Topol complex after a missile launch at the Plesetsk test site, 2000s (http://militaryphotos.net).
APU 15U168 of the 15P158 “Topol” complex of the Novosibirsk division of the Strategic Missile Forces, 12/09/2011 (photo - Alexander Kryazhev, http://visualrian.ru/).
APU 15U168 of the 15P158 "Topol" complex at the exercises of graduates of the Serpukhov Military Academy of the Strategic Missile Forces, publication 12.12.2013 (photo - Konstantin Semenov, http://tvzvezda.ru/).
SPU 15U168 of complex 15P158 "Topol", Military Historical Artillery Museum, St. Petersburg, 05/09/2012 (photo - A.V. Karpenko, http://bastion-karpenko.narod.ru/).
http://rvsn.ruzhany.info/).
SPU 15U168 of the 15P158 "Topol" complex in the pre-launch position (http://www.nationaldefense.ru).
SPU 15U168 of the 15P158 "Topol" complex. On the starboard side of the SPU there are some required structural elements missing. Exhibition "Patriot", Kubinka, 2015 (photo - Vitaly Kuzmin, http://vitalykuzmin.net/).
The aft part of the SPU 15P168 of the 15P158 "Topol" complex (Strategic ground-based missile systems. M., "Military Parade", 2007).
http://pressa-rvsn.livejournal.com/).
For the first time, control system cables were cut off using pyroelectric devices ( ist. - Strategic missiles). TPK is covered with a special fire-resistant intumescent coating SGK-1.
Unit 15U135 "Krona" - a hangar with a sliding roof for carrying out combat duty PGRK in a stationary equipped position. The rocket could be launched directly from the structure, which was equipped with a sliding roof.
Rocket RT-2PM / 15Zh58:
Design- a three-stage solid-fuel rocket with a sequential arrangement of stages. For the first time in the USSR, the stage bodies are made of organoplastic using the method of continuous winding of the “cocoon” type. All stages are equipped with transition compartments.
The first stage of the rocket is equipped with 4 lattice aerodynamic stabilizers and 4 lattice aerodynamic rudders combined with gas-jet rudders.
Launch of the 15Zh58 / RS-12M Topol ICBM from the Plesetsk test site, presumably 2007-2010. (http://pressa-rvsn.livejournal.com/).
The spent first stage of the Topol ICBM after launch from the Plesetsk test site in northern Russia, photo no later than 2013 (http://www.edu.severodvinsk.ru/).
One of the launches of the 15Zh58 / RS-12M "Topol" ICBM from the Plesetsk test site, presumably 2007-2012, published 01/15/2013 (http://pressa-rvsn.livejournal.com/).
Rocket composition:
- starting pad
1st stage - solid propellant rocket engine with a fixed nozzle with gas-jet rudders (synchronized with aerodynamic lattice rudders).
2nd stage - solid propellant rocket engine with a fixed nozzle with a fixed nozzle.
Stage 3 - solid propellant rocket engine with one fixed nozzle with a fixed nozzle. In the front part of the solid propellant rocket engine there are engine thrust cut-off windows, which were opened using extended detonating charges (EDC).
Warhead launch stage
http://rvsn.ruzhany.info/).
Rocket 15Zh58 of the 15P158 "Topol" complex. The photo was probably taken at the MIK at the Ledyanoe site of the Plesetsk training ground (http://rvsn.ruzhany.info/).
Control system: autonomous inertial rocket control system using an on-board computer. The system was developed by NPO Automation and Instrumentation ( chief designer Vladimir Lapygin). Firing accuracy has been increased through the use of new, more sensitive accelerometers and an on-board computer that implements direct guidance methods, which calculates the flight path of the warhead to the point of impact at the current moment in time. ( ist. - Strategic missiles). The aiming system was developed by the design bureau of the Arsenal plant (Kiev), the chief designer is Seraphim Parnyakov. All pre-launch preparation and launch operations, as well as preparatory and routine work, are fully automated.
One of the main components of the missile aiming system is the automatic gyrocompass (AGC) SPU 15U168 of the 15P158 Topol complex. On the starboard side of the SPU there are some required structural elements missing. Exhibition "Patriot", Kubinka, 2015 (photo - Vitaly Kuzmin, http://vitalykuzmin.net/).
The heading and pitch control was carried out at the 1st stage by gas-jet rudders synchronized with aerodynamic rudders, at the second and third stages - by gas injection into the supercritical region of the nozzle. Range control was carried out by cutting off the thrust of the third stage engine.
Engines: development of production and production of charges for solid propellant rocket engines of the 2nd and 3rd stages of the rocket began at the Pavlograd chemical plant in 1979 ().
Starting PAD
Stage 1 - solid propellant rocket engine with a new mixed fuel with increased density and specific impulse developed by LNPO Soyuz (Lyubertsy). The engine is equipped with one fixed nozzle with gas-jet rudders (synchronized with aerodynamic lattice rudders).
The rocket engines underwent fire tests at NIO-1 (Sofrinsky artillery range of the Research Institute "Geodesy") ().
The first stage of the 15Zh58 / RS-12M rocket. The photo was probably taken at the MIK at the Ledyanoe site of the Plesetsk training ground (official photo from documents on the SALT treaties, http://www.fas.org).
Probably, the preparation of the engine of the 1st stage of the 15Zh58 Topol ICBM for experimental testing for the purpose of experimental combustion under the joint program of MIT, FCDT Soyuz, Moscow State University and the Lockheed Martin company (USA) at NIO-1 (Sofrinsky artillery range of the Research Institute "Geodesy") ().
Nozzle block of the first stage of the 15Zh58 rocket of the 15P158 “Topol” complex. The photo was probably taken at the MIK at the Ledyanoe site of the Plesetsk training ground (http://rvsn.ruzhany.info/).
- 2nd stage - solid propellant rocket engine with a new mixed fuel with increased density and specific impulse developed by LNPO "Soyuz" (Lyubertsy). The engine is equipped with one fixed nozzle with a fixed nozzle. The thrust vector was controlled by gas injection into the supercritical region of the nozzle. Injection is provided by a special gas generator ( ist. - Strategic missiles).
The second stage of the 15Zh58 rocket of the 15P158 Topol complex. The photo was probably taken at the MIK at the Ledyanoe site of the Plesetsk training ground (http://rvsn.ruzhany.info/).
- 3rd stage - solid propellant rocket engine with a new mixed fuel with increased density and specific impulse developed by LNPO "Soyuz" (Lyubertsy). The engine is equipped with one fixed nozzle with a fixed nozzle. In the front part of the solid propellant rocket engine there are 8 engine thrust cut-off windows, which were opened using extended detonating charges (EDC). The thrust vector was controlled by gas injection into the supercritical region of the nozzle. For the first time, part of the engine charge is made of metal-free fuel - the combustion products of this part of the charge are discharged through filters to special injection valves through devices in the nozzle flange ( ist. - Strategic missiles).
The third stage of the 15Zh58 rocket of the 15P158 Topol complex. The photo was probably taken at the MIK at the Ledyanoe site of the Plesetsk training ground (http://rvsn.ruzhany.info/).
- warhead launch stage - 4 x solid propellant rocket motor
The launch stage of the 15Zh58 missile warhead of the 15P158 Topol complex. The photo was probably taken at the MIK at the Ledyanoe site of the Plesetsk training ground (http://rvsn.ruzhany.info/).
Performance characteristics of the missile:
Length:
- full - 21.5 m
- without warhead - 18.5 m
- first stage - 8.1 m
- second stage - 4.6 m
- third stage - 3.9 m
- head part - 2.1 m
Diameter:
- first stage housing - 1.8 m
- second stage housing - 1.55 m
- third stage housing - 1.34 m
- TPK (transport and launch container) - 2.0 m
The area of the combat patrol area is 125,000 sq. km
Warhead types:
The basic option is a thermonuclear warhead with a power of 550 kt (,). The charge was developed by VNIIEF under the leadership of Samvel Kocharyants. The warhead is equipped with a set of means to overcome missile defense.
Warhead mass - 1000 km
One of the launches of the Topol-E ICBM from the Kapustin Yar test site at the Sary-Shagan test site, 2013 or earlier (TV footage).
Launch of the Topol-E ICBM from the Kapustin Yar test site, 05/20/2014 (Zvezda TV channel).
Projections of the Topol and Topol-E missiles (15Zh58 and 15Zh58E) - SS-25 SICKLE (, 2015).
- "Start-1"- satellite launch vehicle. The development of the launch vehicle began in 1989. The first launch took place on March 25, 1993.
Design - 5-stage launch vehicle.
Payload mass for low orbit - 500 kg
Presumably the photo shows the launch of the Start-1 launch vehicle on March 25, 1993 (http://www.bmstu.ru/).
Launch vehicle "Start-1" in the workshop of the Votkinsk Machine-Building Plant (http://www.iz-article.ru/).
Launch vehicle "Start-1" in the workshop of the Votkinsk Machine-Building Plant (Yu. Solomonov. Nuclear vertical. M., Intervestnik, 2009).
Launch of the Start launch vehicle.
Infrastructure and auxiliary facilities of the complex:
As of 1999, 4-5 missile regiments were based simultaneously in one positional area of the PGRK. The regiment includes three missile divisions - i.e. 9 SPU, a mobile command post and a stationary command post at the place of permanent deployment of the regiment. ( ist. - Strategic missiles).
The complex includes:
- self-propelled ICBM launchers;
- combat control vehicle (MCV);
- communication machine;
- combat duty support vehicles;
The combat duty support vehicle (MOBD) 15В148 / 15В231 of the Topol complex on the MAZ-543M chassis was intended for recreation of personnel on combat duty.
Combat duty support vehicle (MOBD) 15В148 / 15В231 of the Topol complex on the MAZ-543M chassis (official photo from documents on SALT agreements, http://www.fas.org).
Combat duty support vehicle (MOBD) 15В148 / 15В231 of the Topol complex on the MAZ-543M chassis (http://rvsn.ruzhany.info/).
Combat duty support vehicle (MOBD) 15В148 / 15В231 of the Topol complex on the MAZ-543M chassis at the exercises of graduates of the Serpukhov Military Academy of the Strategic Missile Forces, publication 12/12/2013 (photo - Konstantin Semenov, http://tvzvezda.ru/).
Combat duty support vehicle (MOBD) 15B148 of the Topol complex on the MAZ-543M chassis. Exhibition "Patriot", Kubinka, 2015 (photo - Vitaly Kuzmin, http://vitalykuzmin.net/).
- a vehicle for driver training on the MAZ-7917 chassis.
A vehicle for driver training on the MAZ-7917 chassis (official photo from documents on SALT agreements, http://www.fas.org).
Tropospheric radio communication station 15B78 from the support equipment of the Topol complex on the MAZ-543M chassis. Exhibition "Patriot", Kubinka, 2015 (photo - Vitaly Kuzmin, http://vitalykuzmin.net/).
The set of arsenal equipment of the complex includes a transport trolley for the TPK, probably developed by the Titan Central Design Bureau (Volgograd) and produced at the Barrikady plant.
Complex RT-2PM2 "Topol-M"(code RS-12M2, according to NATO classification - SS-27 Sickle "Sickle") - a Russian strategic missile system with an intercontinental ballistic missile, developed in the late 1980s - early 1990s on the basis of the RT-2PM "Topol" complex . The first intercontinental ballistic missile developed in Russia after the collapse of the USSR. Adopted into service in 1997. The lead developer of the missile system is the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering (MIT).
Rocket of the Topol-M complex is solid fuel, three-stage. Maximum range - 11,000 km. Carries one thermonuclear warhead with a power of 550 kt. The missile is based both in silo launchers (silos) and on mobile launchers. The silo-based version was put into service in 2000.
Designed to carry out missions to target enemy territory in the face of counteraction from existing and future missile defense systems, with multiple nuclear impacts on a positional area, and when a positional area is blocked by high-altitude nuclear explosions. It is used as part of the 15PO65 silo-based and 15P165 mobile-based complexes.
Stationary complex "Topol-M" includes 10 intercontinental ballistic missiles mounted in silo launchers, as well as a command post.
Main characteristics of the Topol-M rocket
| Number of steps | 3 |
| Length (with MS) | 22.55 m |
| Length (without MS) | 17.5 m |
| Diameter | 1.81 m |
| Launch weight | 46.5 t |
| Throwing weight | 1.2 t |
| Type of fuel | Solid mixed |
| Maximum range | 11000 km |
| Head type | Monobloc, nuclear, detachable |
| Number of warheads | 1 + about 20 dummies |
| Charge power | 550 Kt |
| Control system | Autonomous, inertial based on BTsVK |
| Based method | Mine and mobile |
Mobile complex "Topol-M" is a single missile placed in a high-strength fiberglass transport and launch container (TPK), mounted on an eight-axle MZKT-79221 cross-country chassis and is structurally practically no different from the silo version. The weight of the launcher is 120 tons. Six pairs of eight wheels are swivel, providing a turning radius of 18 meters.
The ground pressure of the installation is two times less than usual truck. Engine V-shaped 12-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine YaMZ-847 with a power of 800 hp. The depth of the ford is up to 1.1 meters.
When creating systems and units of the mobile Topol-M, a number of fundamentally new technical solutions were used in comparison with the Topol complex. Thus, the partial suspension system makes it possible to deploy the Topol-M launcher even on soft soils. The maneuverability and maneuverability of the installation have been improved, which increases its survivability.
"Topol-M" is capable of launching from any point in the positional area, and also has improved means of camouflage, both against optical and other reconnaissance means (including by reducing the infrared component of the complex's unmasking field, as well as the use of special coatings that reduce radar signature).
Intercontinental missile consists of three stages with solid propellant propulsion engines. Aluminum is used as fuel, ammonium perchlorate acts as an oxidizing agent. The step bodies are made of composites. All three stages are equipped with a rotating nozzle to deflect the thrust vector (there are no lattice aerodynamic rudders).
Control system– inertial, based on the on-board central heating system and a gyro-stabilized platform. The complex of high-speed command gyroscopic devices has improved accuracy characteristics. The new BTsVK has increased productivity and resistance to damaging factors nuclear explosion. Aiming is ensured through the implementation of autonomous determination of the azimuth of the control element installed on a gyro-stabilized platform using a ground-based complex of command instruments located on the TPK. Increased combat readiness, accuracy and continuous operation life of on-board equipment are ensured.
Launch method - mortar for both options. The rocket's sustaining solid-propellant engine allows it to gain speed much faster than previous types of rockets of a similar class created in Russia and the Soviet Union. This makes it much more difficult for missile defense systems to intercept it during the active phase of the flight.
The missile is equipped with a detachable warhead with one thermonuclear warhead with a capacity of 550 kt of TNT equivalent. The warhead is also equipped with a set of means to overcome missile defense. The complex of means for overcoming missile defense consists of passive and active decoys, as well as means of distorting the characteristics of the warhead. Several dozen auxiliary correction engines, instruments and control mechanisms allow the warhead to maneuver along the trajectory, making it difficult to intercept it at the final part of the trajectory.
False targets indistinguishable from warheads in all ranges of electromagnetic radiation (optical, laser, infrared, radar). False targets make it possible to simulate the characteristics of warheads according to almost all selection criteria in the extra-atmospheric, transitional and significant part of the atmospheric section of the descending branch of the flight trajectory of missile warheads, and are resistant to damaging factors nuclear explosion and radiation from a super-powerful nuclear-pumped laser. For the first time, decoys have been designed that can withstand super-resolution radars.
In connection with the termination of the START-2 treaty, which prohibited the creation of multi-charge intercontinental ballistic missiles, the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering is working on equipping Topol-M with multiple independently targetable warheads. Perhaps the result of this work is the RS-24 Yars. A mobile version of this complex, placed on the chassis of an eight-axle tractor MZKT-79221, is being tested.
The high resistance of the 15Zh65 missile to the effects of potential enemy missile defense systems is achieved due to:
- Reducing the time and length of the active section through extremely rapid acceleration of the rocket. Acceleration time to final speed (over 7 km/s) is less than 3 minutes.
- The missile’s ability to maneuver in the active section, complicating the enemy’s solution to the interception task, as well as to perform a program maneuver when passing through the cloud of a nuclear explosion
- Newly developed protective coating for the hull, providing comprehensive protection against the damaging factors of a nuclear explosion and weapons based on new physical principles.
- A complex for overcoming missile defense, including passive and active decoys and means of distorting the characteristics of the warhead. LCs are indistinguishable from warheads in all ranges of electromagnetic radiation (optical, laser, infrared, radar), they allow simulating the characteristics of warheads according to almost all selection criteria in the extra-atmospheric, transitional and significant part of the atmospheric section of the descending branch of the flight trajectory of missile warheads, up to altitudes 2 - 5 km; are resistant to the damaging factors of a nuclear explosion and radiation from a super-powerful nuclear-pumped laser, etc. For the first time, LCs have been designed that can withstand super-resolution radars. Means for distorting the characteristics of the warhead consist of a radio-absorbing (combined with heat-protective) coating of the warhead, active jammers, etc. The radar signature of the warhead is reduced by several orders of magnitude, the ESR is 0.0001 sq.m. Its detection range has been reduced to 100 - 200 km. The optical and IR visibility of the BB is extremely reduced due to the effective cooling of the BB surface in the trans-atmospheric section and the reduction in the luminosity of the BB's wake in the atmospheric section, achieved incl. due to the injection of special liquid products into the trace area that reduce the intensity of radiation. As a result of the measures taken, it is possible to overcome the monoblock warhead of a promising multi-echelon missile defense system with space-based elements with a probability of 0.93 - 0.94. The high- and sub-atmospheric missile defense section is overcome with a probability of 0.99, the atmospheric - with a probability of 0.93 - 0.95.
The 15Zh65 rocket is equipped with a thermonuclear monoblock warhead with a power of 0.55 MGt. Tests of ICBMs with MIRVs (from 3 to 6 multiple warheads with a capacity of 150 kt.) have been carried out. In the future, it is planned to equip the missile with a maneuvering warhead (tests of which were also successfully carried out in 2005 and continue), and therefore the possibility of intercepting warheads, according to Russian specialists will be practically reduced to zero.
The probable circular deviation is no more than 200 m, which allows the half-megaton power warhead to confidently hit highly protected point targets (in particular, command posts and silos). Due to the limited throw weight, which limits the power of nuclear warheads, the Topol-M missile, unlike the 15A18 missile "Voevoda"(the power of a monoblock warhead was 20-25 MGt) has limitations on the implementation of a destructive effect on a large area target.
The mobile-based 15P165 complex has unique characteristics initial survival, capable of functioning covertly and autonomously for a long period of time. The patrol area of the complex is 250,000 sq. km.
Rocket "Topol M" unified with the rocket "Mace" sea-based, created to arm the Project 955 SSBN. The Bulava’s competitor is the R-29RMU2 liquid-fueled ICBM “ Sineva" It is significantly superior to the Bulava (like all other ICBMs) in terms of energy and mass perfection, but is inferior in terms of an important criterion for Russian sea-based missiles - survival in the active phase due to the lower acceleration speed and greater vulnerability from laser weapons, characteristic of liquid-propellant missiles compared to solid fuel. However, the Bulava rocket, with a launch weight of about 37 tons, is significantly inferior in striking power to existing heavier solid-fuel rockets, including the Trident-2 rocket with a launch weight of 59 tons. (Bulava warhead - 6x150 kt, Trident-2 (theoretically) - 8x475 kt). The project to equip the naval component of Russia's nuclear forces with SSBNs with light ballistic missiles "Bulava" is criticized by experts who point to the need to arm domestic SSBNs with high-tech solid-fuel SLBM R-39UTTH, the testing of which was curtailed in the 90s. and which, if put into service, would have no analogues in the world among SLBMs in terms of striking power and flight performance.
Transportation of the Topol-M rocket and loading into the silo
Transportation and loading into the silo of the 5th generation intercontinental ballistic missile system RT-2PM2 "Topol-M". Location: 60th Taman Order of the October Revolution Red Banner Missile Division.
MRK SN (strategic intercontinental missile system) "Topol-M" (SS-X-27, "Sickle" according to NATO classification) with the RS-12M2 missile (RT-2PM2, 15Zh65) is the result of further modernization of the Topol missile system ( SS-25). This complex was entirely created by Russian enterprises.
Work on the creation of a new missile system began in the mid-1980s. The resolution of the Military-Industrial Commission dated September 09, 1989 ordered the creation of two missile systems (mobile and stationary), as well as a universal three-stage solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile. This development work was given the name “Universal”, and the complex under development was given the designation RT-2PM2. The complex was jointly developed by the Moscow Institute of Thermal Engineering and Yuzhnoye Design Bureau (Ukraine, Dnepropetrovsk).
The missile was supposed to be unified for both complexes, however, in the original design, a difference was assumed in the warhead breeding system. For a silo-based missile, the combat stage had to be equipped with a liquid jet engine using the promising PRONIT monopropellant. For the mobile complex, MIT developed a solid propellant propulsion system. There were also differences in the transport and launch container (TPC). In the mobile version, the TPK was supposed to be made of fiberglass, in the stationary version - from metal, with a number of ground equipment systems mounted on it. Therefore, the rocket for the mobile complex was assigned the index 15Zh55, for the stationary complex - 15Zh65.
In March 1992, it was decided to develop the Topol-M complex on the basis of Universal (Yuzhnoye Design Bureau stopped participating in work on this complex in April). On February 27, 1993, the President of the Russian Federation signed a corresponding decree (this date is considered the beginning of work on Topol-M). This decree appointed MIT as the lead enterprise for the development of Topol-M, and guaranteed funding for the work.
In fact, it was necessary to develop a universal missile based on the types of deployment. At the same time, in both silo and mobile versions, the missile had to have high combat capabilities, high fire accuracy and be capable of long-term combat duty in different degrees of readiness. In addition, it had to be highly resistant to damaging factors during flight and overcome the missile defense of a potential enemy.
APU of the RT-2PM2 / RS-12M2 "Topol-M" complex with the Yars ICBM TPK during a parade rehearsal in Moscow, 04/26/2011. Previously it was believed that this was the Yars APU (photo - Vitaly Kuzmin, http:/ /vitalykuzmin.net/)
The missile for the Topol-M MRK was created as a modernization of the RS-12M intercontinental ballistic missile. The conditions for modernization were determined by the START I Treaty. According to this document, a rocket can be considered new if it differs from its analogue in one of the following characteristics:
- number of steps;
- type of fuel for any stage;
- the starting mass differs by more than 10 percent;
- the length of the assembled rocket without the warhead (warhead), or the length of the first stage of the rocket differs by more than 10 percent;
- the diameter of the first stage differs by more than 5 percent;
- throw weight of more than 21 percent combined with a change in first stage length of 5 percent or more.
Due to these limitations, the tactical and technical characteristics of the Topol-M MRK missile could not undergo significant changes, and the main differences from its analogue (RT-2PM) lie in the flight characteristics and stability when penetrating enemy missile defenses. From the very beginning, the warhead was developed taking into account the possibility of rapid modernization in the event of the emergence of operational missile defense systems from a potential enemy. It is possible to install a warhead with multiple warheads with individual guidance.
The Topol-M missile system is unique in many ways and is approximately 1.5 times superior to the previous generation missile system in terms of combat readiness, survivability and maneuverability (in the mobile version), and effectiveness in hitting various targets, even in the face of enemy opposition. The energy capabilities of the rocket ensure an increase in throw weight, a significant decrease in the altitude of the active part of the flight path, as well as effective penetration of a promising missile defense system.
When developing the Topol-M MRK, the latest achievements of domestic rocketry and science were used. For the first time, a new experimental testing system was used during tests with high standard operating conditions of units and systems of the missile complex. This has dramatically reduced traditional testing volume and reduced costs without sacrificing reliability.
The complex is a monoblock three-stage solid-fuel rocket housed in a transport and launch container. The missile's lifespan in it is at least 15 years, with a total service life of at least 20 years. Among the features of the complex:
- the ability to use existing silo launchers without significant costs (only the system of attaching the container to the missile changes). Silo launchers are used, which are exempt from missiles being removed from service, and launchers in accordance with the START-2 treaty;
- increased, compared to Topol, firing accuracy, vulnerability of missiles during flight from the effects of air defense systems (including nuclear) and readiness for launch;
- the ability of missiles to maneuver during flight;
- immunity to electromagnetic pulses;
- compatibility with existing control, communication and support systems.
The 15Zh65 (RT-2PM2) rocket has 3 sustainer stages with powerful solid propellant power plants. The rocket's sustainer stages have a one-piece "cocoon" body made of composite material. The 15Zh65, unlike the Topol, does not have lattice stabilizers and rudders. Flight control is carried out by a central partially recessed rotary nozzle of the propulsion engines of the three stages of the rocket. The nozzles of the propulsion engines are made of carbon-carbon material. A three-dimensionally reinforced oriented carbon-carbon matrix is used for the nozzle liners.
The launch weight of the rocket is more than 47 tons. The total length of the rocket is 22.7 meters, and without the head part the length is 17.5 meters. The maximum diameter of the rocket body (first stage) is 1.86 meters. The mass of the head part is 1.2 tons. The length of the first stage is 8.04 meters, the weight of the fully loaded stage is 28.6 tons, the operating time is 60 seconds. The thrust of the first stage solid rocket motor at sea level is 890 kN. The diameter of the second and third stages is 1.61 and 1.58 meters, respectively. The operating time of the stages is 64 and 56 seconds, respectively. Three solid-propellant propulsion engines ensure rapid acceleration, reducing the missile's vulnerability in the acceleration phase, and modern control systems and dozens of auxiliary engines provide maneuver in flight, making the trajectory difficult to predict for the enemy.
A monoblock thermonuclear detachable warhead with a thermonuclear 550-kiloton warhead, unlike strategic intercontinental ballistic missiles of another type, can be quickly replaced by a warhead with multiple independently targetable warheads with a capacity of 150 kilotons. In addition, the Topol-M missile can be equipped with a maneuvering warhead. The new nuclear warhead, according to media reports, can overcome the US missile defense system, which is confirmed by the results of tests of the complex (November 21, 2005) with a new warhead. The probability of overcoming American missile defense is currently 60-65 percent, in the future - more than 80.
It should be noted that when creating the ICBM warhead, the technologies and developments obtained during the creation of the warhead for the Topol were used to the maximum, which made it possible to reduce the cost and shorten the development time. The new warhead, despite such unification, is significantly more resistant to the damaging factors of a nuclear explosion and the action of weapons that are based on new physical principles, compared to its predecessor, has a lower specific gravity, and also has more advanced safety mechanisms during transportation, storage and while on combat duty. Warhead has an increased coefficient beneficial use fissile materials. This warhead was created without testing components and parts during full-scale explosions (a first for the domestic military industry).
The 15Zh65 missile is equipped with a complex of missile defense breakthrough systems (KSP ABM), which includes passive and active decoys, as well as means of distorting the characteristics of the warhead. False targets are indistinguishable from warheads in all ranges of electromagnetic radiation (laser, optical, radar, infrared). They make it possible to imitate the characteristics of BBs according to almost all selecting characteristics in all sections of the descending branch of their flight trajectory, are resistant to PFYA, etc. These decoys are the first that can withstand super-resolution radar stations. Means for distorting the characteristics of the warhead consist of a radio-absorbing coating, aerosol sources of infrared radiation, active radio interference generators, and so on.
The 15Zh65 missile can be operated as part of a stationary (15P065) or mobile (15P165) ballistic missile system. In this case, for the stationary version, silo missile launchers are used, which are removed from service or destroyed in accordance with START-2. A stationary group is created by converting silo launchers 15P735 and 15P718.
The 15P065 combat stationary silo missile system includes 10 15Zh65 missiles in 15P765-35 launchers, as well as one unified 15V222 high-security type CP (placed in the silo on a suspension using special shock absorption). Work on the conversion of silo 15P735 to accommodate Topol-M missiles was carried out under the leadership of Dmitry Dragun at the Vympel Design Bureau.
During combat duty, the 15Zh65 missile is housed in a metal TPK. The transport and launch container is unified for various types The silo combines the functions of a transport and reloading machine and an installer. The transport and installation unit was developed at the Motor design bureau.
Mobile-based intercontinental ballistic missiles "Topol-M" are deployed as part of the 15P165 complex. The mobile-based missile is housed in a high-strength fiberglass transport and launch container on an MZKT-79221 (MAZ-7922) all-terrain chassis with eight axles from the Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant. Structurally, the TPK is practically no different from the mine version. The launcher and its adaptation to the tractor were carried out by the Titan Design Bureau. Serial production of launchers is carried out at the Volgograd production association "Barricades". The mass of the launcher is 120 tons, width - 3.4 meters, length - 22 meters. Six of the eight pairs of wheels are swivel (the first and last three axles), which provides exceptional maneuverability for such dimensions (the turning radius, for example, is only 18 meters) and maneuverability. The ground pressure is half that of a conventional truck. The launcher engine is a 12-cylinder V-shaped 800-horsepower YaMZ-847 diesel engine with turbocharging. The depth of the ford is 1.1 meters. When creating 15P165 units and systems, several fundamentally new technologies were used. decisions. For example, the partial suspension system makes it possible to deploy the Topol-M launcher on soft soils. The maneuverability and maneuverability of the installation have been improved, increasing its survivability. "Topol-M" can launch missiles from any point in the positional area and has improved camouflage means against optical and other reconnaissance means.
The characteristics of the Topol-M missile system make it possible to significantly increase the readiness of strategic missile forces to carry out combat missions in various conditions, ensure secrecy, maneuverability and survivability of individual launchers, units and units, as well as autonomous operation and reliability of control during for a long time (without replenishment of material resources). Aiming accuracy has been almost doubled, the accuracy of determining geodetic data has been increased by one and a half times, and the launch preparation time has been halved.
The re-equipment of units of the strategic missile forces is carried out using the existing infrastructure. Stationary and mobile options are fully compatible with existing systems communications and combat control.
Tactical and technical characteristics of the 15Zh65 rocket:
Maximum firing range – 11000 km;
Number of steps – 3;
Launch weight – 47.1 t (47.2 t);
Throwing weight – 1.2 t;
The length of the rocket without the warhead is 17.5 m (17.9 m);
Rocket length - 22.7 m;
Maximum case diameter – 1.86 m;
Warhead type – nuclear, monoblock;
Warhead equivalent – 0.55 Mt;
Circular probable deviation – 200 m;
The diameter of the TPK (without protruding parts) is 1.95 m (for 15P165 – 2.05 m).
Performance characteristics of MZKT-79221 (MAZ-7922):
Wheel formula – 16x16;
Turning radius – 18 m;
Ground clearance – 475 mm;
Loaded weight – 40 tons (without combat equipment);
Load capacity – 80 t;
Maximum speed – 45 km/h;
Power reserve – 500 km.
Prepared based on materials:
http://rbase.new-factoria.ru
http://www.arms-expo.ru
http://www.kap-yar.ru
http://army.lv
http://military-informer.narod.ru