My nukes can’t be stopped
RUSSIA has tested new strategic missiles that cannot be intercepted, president Vladimir Putin warned yesterday.
It marks a technological breakthrough that would dramatically increase Russia’s military capability and boost the Kremlin’s global position.
In a state-of-the-nation speech in Moscow, Putin said the arsenal includes a nuclear-powered cruise missile, a nuclear-powered underwater drone and a new hypersonic missile.
He said the creation of the new weapons has rendered Nato’s US-led missile defence “useless”, and effectively ends what he described as Western efforts to curb Russia’s development.
Putin said: “I want to tell all those who have fuelled the arms race over the last 15 years, sought to win unilateral advantages over Russia, introduced unlawful sanctions aimed to contain our country’s development – all that you wanted to impede with your policies has already happened.
“You have failed to contain Russia.”
The announcement comes as Putin is set to easily win another six-year presidential term in the March 18 election.
He said the nuclearpowered cruise missile tested last autumn has an unlimited range, high speed and manoeuvrability, allowing it to pierce any missile defence.
Putin said the high-speed underwater drone also has an “intercontinental” range and is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead that could target aircraft carriers and coastal bases. Its operating depth and speed make it immune to interception.
Putin said the new weapons came in response to US withdrawal from a Cold War-era treaty banning missile defences. He added: “No one has listened to us. You listen to us now.”
Swan shot dead
A swan was found dead on the shore near Kincardine Bridge last week with what looked like a crossbow bolt wound to the head. The SSPCA are investigating.