Putin Announces Transfer of Oreshnik Missile Systems to Belarus
In a significant development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has confirmed the transfer of Oreshnik missile systems to Belarus, slated for deployment in the second half of 2025. This announcement came during a meeting of the Supreme State Council of the Union State on December 6, following a request from Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. Lukashenko emphasized that this move would help stabilize the situation in Belarus amid ongoing tensions in the region.
Putin highlighted that the transfer is contingent on the increase in production capacity of these missile systems in Russia. He noted that the infrastructure in Belarus, remnants from the Soviet era, would facilitate the deployment with minimal preparation costs. Importantly, while the Oreshnik systems will be integrated into the Russian Strategic Missile Forces, the Belarusian military-political leadership will retain control over target selection against potential adversaries.
Features and Capabilities of the Oreshnik Missile System
The Oreshnik missile system, according to Putin, possesses unique features that set it apart from other weapons. He described it as a high-precision weapon capable of delivering significant strike power without the destructive consequences associated with nuclear arms. The system's missiles can achieve speeds of up to 10 Machs, making them virtually unstoppable by current air defense technologies.
Putin also referenced the recent successful combat deployment of the Oreshnik in Ukraine, where it was used in a strike against a Ukrainian defense industry facility. He framed this action as a necessary response to NATO's aggressive posture towards Russia. Furthermore, he assured that future strikes would be conducted with humanitarian considerations, advising civilians to evacuate danger zones in advance.
The announcement of the Oreshnik transfer is likely to escalate tensions in the region, as it underscores the ongoing military collaboration between Russia and Belarus amidst broader geopolitical conflicts.
