SSBN Yury Dolgoruky to perform Bulava salvo launch in Oct

31.08.2011 Seventeenth test of submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) R-30 Bulava is scheduled in the first half of Oct 2011, reports Interfax referring to a source in Russian Navy Main HQ.

Expectedly, it would be a salvo launch. Project 955 Borei nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) Yury Dolgoruky will launch two missiles at a short interval. If the Bulava salvo launch happens to be successful, the missile will be subject to commissioning.

Previous 16th test launch of SLBM Bulava (second in 2011) was carried out on Aug 27, 2011. The missile was tested for maximal flight range which turned out to be 9,300 km. The test was found successful. Generally, 9 out of 16 launches were effective. As was earlier reported, 4-5 tests would be carried out in the current year; upon their results, Bulava can be commissioned into Russian Navy. SSBN Yury Dolgoruky will be put into service along with the missile.

In prospect, SLBM Bulava will become the core element of Russia's naval nuclear shield and be basic weapon of Project 955/955A/955U Borei submarines. The missile is capable to hit targets at the range up to 8,000 km and carries 6-10 nuclear warheads with yield of 150 kt each.