Russian President Vladimir Putin has made conflicting statements regarding the production of Russia’s new medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM), the “Oreshnik” (RS-26).
Speaking at an expanded meeting of the Russian Defense Ministry Board on December 16, Putin claimed that serial production of the missile would commence soon. However, this contradicts remarks he made on November 28, when he stated that “mass production of the Oreshnik MRBM has already started.”
The Oreshnik missile, described by Putin as “the newest and most powerful weapon” in Russia’s arsenal, has been touted as a game-changer in the country’s missile capabilities.
Putin’s comments on December 16 add to the ambiguity surrounding the missile’s development and readiness.
Putin on Nov 28: “Mass production of Oreshnik MRBM has already started.”
Putin today: “Mass production of Oreshnik MRBM will start soon.” pic.twitter.com/gozfjTJ1jO
— Clash Report (@clashreport) December 16, 2024
Earlier, during the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) summit in November, he emphasized the missile’s potential. “In cases of massive and group use of these missiles—several in one strike—the power of such an attack would be comparable to the use of nuclear weapons. However, the Oreshnik is not, of course, a weapon of mass destruction,” Putin said at the time.
On November 21, Russia reportedly launched an RS-26 missile from the Astrakhan region toward Dnipro, Ukraine. The attack caused minor damage, but its implications were notable. That same day, Putin claimed the missile strike was carried out using the Oreshnik system, which had not been publicly acknowledged prior to this event.
The mixed messaging on the missile’s production and deployment timeline has led to skepticism among analysts. While Putin’s comments portray the Oreshnik as an advanced and reliable weapon, the inconsistencies suggest that its development may still face hurdles.
The Oreshnik MRBM is said to be capable of carrying out precise strikes with conventional warheads, offering Russia a strategic tool for non-nuclear deterrence. However, the lack of clarity about its readiness raises doubts about its actual role in Russia’s military arsenal.
The timing of Putin’s remarks—amid intensifying global scrutiny over Russia’s actions in Ukraine—has also drawn attention. The missile’s mention could be part of a broader effort to project strength and technological advancement, even as operational realities lag behind official rhetoric.