RT:
The Russian Air Force has test-fired a domestically built short-range anti-ballistic missile to verify its performance. The system is already in use with the military as part of Russia’s missile defense shield.
The short-range anti-ballistic missile (ABM) was successfully test-fired at 7.00am local time on Tuesday from the Sary-Shagan testing ground in Kazakhstan, the Russian Defense Ministry’s press service said, according to TASS.
The missile defense system is capable of neutralizing a possible nuclear strike on Russia, and ensures operation of national command and control systems in real-time mode, the statement added. A newer missile defense system is expected to replace it in the future, utilizing upgraded software and modernized ABMs.
The anti-ballistic missile performed well during the test and hit its target on schedule, Lieutenant General Viktor Gumenny, deputy commander of the Russian Air Force, told TASS.
Russia has been developing a missile defense shield for several decades to secure strategic military balance with the US. The A-135 anti-ballistic missile system is currently deployed around Moscow. It comprises dozens of interceptor missiles and sophisticated early warning radars.
