LAUNCHER INFO

The R-36O was the only orbiting military nuclear weapon ever deployed, although in order to remain legal under international treaties it was a 'fractional orbital' weapon. Although American infrared early warning satellites invalidated the 'surprise attack' component of the concept, 18 missiles were operational from 1969 to 1983.

MANUFACTURER INFO

Yuzhnoye Design Bureau

LAUNCHER SPECIFICATIONS

(diameter)

3 m

TO GTO

null kg

(length)

32.6 m

TO LEO

null kg

(reusable)

false

LAUNCH STATISTICS