RT-2PM2 Topol-M nuclear warhead strategic intercontinental space ballistic missile mobile launchers on the streets of Moscow, Russia - stock photo

The RT-2PM2 «Topol-M» (Russian: «Тополь-М», NATO: SS-27 "Sickle B") is one of the recent space intercontinental ballistic missiles to be deployed by Russia. It is a cold-launched, three-stage, solid-propellant, road-mobile intercontinental ballistic missile able to carry up to 1200 kg payload of multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs) containing several thermonuclear warheads, each capable of being aimed to hit a different target. The body of the rocket is made by winding carbon fiber. The mass at launch is 47000+ kg. Its minimum range is estimated to be 2000 km and the maximum range 10500 km. The missile can be maintained on alert for prolonged periods of time and can launch within minutes of being given the order. It is noted for its short engine burn time following take-off, intended to minimize satellite detection of launches and complicate interception by missile defense systems during boost phase. The missile also has a relatively flat ballistic trajectory, complicating defense acquisition and interception.