Topol-M is a strategic missile system that contains the latest achievements in science and technology. At present, national flight tests of the Topol-M missile system have been completed. Four successful start-up launches took place.
In comparison with its predecessor, Topol, Topol-M possesses better fighting and operational capacities. Putting the Topol-M system into operation has a significant value for the formation of promising strike groups in the Strategic Rocket Forces. Within the Topol-M system, the same missile as the one used for silo-deployed missiles is being deployed. This resulted in the number of tests decreasing by 3 to 4 times. Using the infrastructure available in the launching areas of the Strategic Rocket Forces and a system that is compatible with the existing system of military control and communications reduced the cost for putting the system into orbit by two times.
The Topol-M system differs from previous systems because of its enhanced operational characteristics. In particular, the guaranteed time of operation increased by 1,5 times.
The programme for expanding the Topol-M system is being carried out synchronously with the gradual removal of its predecessor, the Topol missile system, from the military structure of the Strategic Rocket Forces.