The Russian Navy Report

Bulava

Bulava being fired from Dmitri Donskoy

The RSM-56 is a new ballistic missile for the Russian Navy that has been in some form of development since 1999. The missile was to be the new missile for a new class of SSBN, which had been laid down in 1996.

The missile however failed its first three tests, and both the missile and the construction of the submarine were delayed.

The design bureau started from the ground up, and designed the Bulava. The new missile was significantly different, and because of this the SSBN that had been laid down had to be heavily modified.  

Spiral glow after a failed Bulava launch

The Russian Navy expected to take delivery of the missile and submarine in 2005.

However the missile again failed tests and the missile was delayed. 

In 2009 the missile's chief designer resigned, and the program was examined once again.

Since a new chief designer has been in place the missile tests have been successful.

Yuri Dogorukiy being loaded with Bulava

The missile has now been fired from the new SSBN Yuri Dolgorukiy, and will enter serial production.

Yuri Dolgorukiy getting ready to head to sea.

This missile is the most expensive weapons system ever developed by the Russian Federation. Because of the delays in development and deployment the very force structure of the Russian Navy has been effected, and will continue to be effected for the next several years.