Russia Tests 2nd Sub-launched Ballistic Missile

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Via CBSNews.com (AP) -

News agencies say Russia has successfully tested its second submarine-launched ballistic missile in as many days.

RIA-Novosti and Interfax quote the head of Russia's joint chief of staff as saying a Sineva-type missile was fired Tuesday from the submarine Bryansk near the White Sea.

Gen. Nikolai Makarov was quoted as saying it was a short-range test for the Sineva.

Russia is struggling to introduce the newer, more-sophisticated Bulava missile into service, but it has failed in five of 10 launches.

Russian leaders say the Bulava will be able to penetrate missile defenses and will be a key part of the military's future nuclear arsenal.