Russia Says 'Oreshnik' Medium-Range Missile Is On Duty as Serial Production Begins

Overview

• President Vladimir Putin announced the system has been created, placed on combat duty, and entered mass production.
• The statement was delivered at a ceremony honoring developers of the Poseidon and Burevestnik programs, according to RIA Novosti.
• Putin cited a November 21, 2024 combat-condition trial of a non‑nuclear, hypersonic-equipped medium-range ballistic missile named Oreshnik.
• He framed the testing and fielding as a reply to actions by NATO countries, specifically the use by Ukrainian forces of U.S. and British long-range weapons.
• Putin said broader plans to place advanced systems on combat duty are proceeding, pointing to the Avangard strategic missile complex as an example.