MOSCOW. June 6 (Interfax-AVN) - A Topol-M intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) was test-launched by the Russian Strategic Missile Forces and Space Troops at 3:20 p.m. Moscow time (1120 GMT) on Thursday from the Plesetsk state testing ground, a spokesman for the Strategic Missile Forces Staff told Interfax-Military News Agency.
The missile was launched from a self-propelled unit within the framework of joint tests carried out in the interests of the Strategic Missile Forces, the principal objective being to check operability of the missile's units and assemblies as well as to asses its flight and technical characteristics.
Pre-start procedures, launch and flight of the missile were carried out in a standard mode in according to the schedule. The target at the Kura testing ground in Kamchatka was engaged by the missile with pre-set accuracy. It was another proof of the efficiency of the missile's design and configuration.
The successful launch of the missile was implemented thanks to all-out efforts of the developers and experts of the Russian defense Ministry, the spokesman said.
Speaking of the operation of the fire ground's personnel, Commander of the Strategic Missile Forces Nikolai Solovtsov said that the servicemen of the Strategic Missile Forces and Space Troops showed high professional level and expertise.