Yars is part of Russia’s nuclear deterrent (Image: Getty Images)
Russia has deployed ICBMs to its Tver province, near the border with Belarus. The move marks an increase in tensions amid fierce fighting around Soledar and Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine.
In a statement, the Russian Defense Ministry said: “Yars PGRK self-propelled launchers have been deployed in the Bologovsky missile formation (Tver province).”
The ministry added: “These launchers will carry out operational missions up to 100km long, dispersing units by changing field positions, technical equipment, camouflage organization and combat protection. In addition, soldiers will also receive combat training according to the plan, and prepare weapons and military equipment for long-term missions on patrol routes.”
Yars is part of Russia’s Strategic Missile Forces whose primary purpose is to be used for nuclear deterrence, the ministry said. Therefore, although these missiles are not close to the border with Ukraine, their location in Russia’s far west remains a major challenge for Kiev.
Regarding the strategic significance of Yars, the Ministry noted: “RS-24 Yars has been at the forefront of efforts to modernize Russia’s nuclear forces. Yars supports the ground division of the Russian Nuclear Triad to increase efficiency. effective through its ability to evade missile defense systems. The missile has the ability to maneuver during its journey, thereby giving it an advantage over modern missile defense systems.”
“The Yars missile takes only seven minutes to pose serious threats to the US missile defense system,” the ministry added.
On January 16, the head of the Russian-appointed government in Donetsk, Denis Pushilin, announced that the Russian army had taken control of the settlement of Verkhnee Vodyanoye (north of the city of Peski) in Donetsk. “Verkhnee Vodyanoye is already under the control of Russian forces. In the next few days, more settlements will come under control,” he said.
According to RIA Novosti, Verkhnee Vodyanoye is an important area, strategically located in the plan to control Donetsk by Russian forces.