Russia successfully test-fired a new intercontinental ballistic missile, the Sarmat, as part of its nuclear force modernization efforts. The missile is slated for combat service by year's end.

Russia test-fired a new intercontinental ballistic missile as part of efforts to modernize its nuclear forces. The nuclear-armed Sarmat missile would enter combat service at the end of the year. <img alt="In this image made from video provided by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, Russia" src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims3/default/strip/false/crop/2000x1125+0+0/resize/2000x1125!/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Faf%2Fad%2F6229e2a849818c4a83b8...